Masala Akki Roti Recipe – Spicy Rice Flour Flatbread
Description:
The Masala Akki Roti is a flavorful and spicy rice flour flatbread originating from Karnataka, South India. This dish is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it also provides a delightful way to enjoy rice flour with a burst of fresh vegetables and spices. Whether you’re looking for a unique breakfast or a savory tea-time snack, this dish is perfect for those moments when unexpected guests arrive or when you need something quick and satisfying. With its combination of shredded veggies like carrot, cabbage, and bell pepper, along with fragrant spices like cumin and asafoetida, this traditional South Indian recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 2 cups |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, grated |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped |
| Dill leaves | 1/4 cup, finely chopped |
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi/ Muttaikose) | 1/4 cup, finely chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, finely chopped |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For cooking |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, grated carrot, finely chopped cabbage, capsicum, onion, fresh coconut, cumin seeds, green chillies, ginger, asafoetida, and salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined.
2. Knead the Dough
Gradually add warm water to the dry mixture. Begin kneading the dough, adding water a little at a time until it forms a smooth, soft dough. You’ll need approximately 1 cup of warm water for this process. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet.
3. Rest the Dough
Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps the dough bind better, making it easier to shape.
4. Shape the Roti
After the dough has rested, grease your palms with a little oil. Take a portion of the dough, about the size of a lemon, and roll it into a ball. Set the dough ball aside.
5. Prepare for Cooking
Preheat a non-stick tawa or roti pan on medium heat. Wet a muslin cloth with water or grease a plantain leaf. Grease your palm again and place the dough portion in the center of the cloth or leaf. Using your fingers, gently pat the dough into a circular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
Make three small holes in the center of the akki roti to ensure it cooks evenly. This is an important step to avoid the roti puffing up unevenly during cooking.
6. Cook the Akki Roti
Carefully invert the shaped roti onto the preheated tawa. Slowly peel away the muslin cloth or plantain leaf. Allow the roti to cook for a few seconds, until you can see the edges beginning to brown.
Flip the roti gently and drizzle a teaspoon of oil around the edges. Cook the roti on the second side until golden brown spots appear, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve
Once the masala akki roti is cooked and browned on both sides, remove it from the heat. Serve the hot, crispy roti immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Masala Akki Roti is best enjoyed when served warm, accompanied by Coconut Chutney or a dollop of Ghee. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of Filter Coffee or Masala Chai for an authentic South Indian breakfast or a savory evening snack.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or beans. Simply shred or finely chop them and add them to the dough.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your preferred spice level. You can also add a pinch of red chilli powder for an extra kick.
- Rice Flour Texture: The type of rice flour you use can affect the texture of the roti. If the dough feels too stiff, add a little more warm water until it reaches the desired consistency.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150-180 kcal |
| Protein | ~2-3 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~32 g |
| Fiber | ~2-3 g |
| Fat | ~3-5 g |
| Sodium | ~200 mg |
| Potassium | ~120 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)
The Masala Akki Roti is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for anyone seeking a gluten-free and vegan option for breakfast or a light meal. Its combination of spices, vegetables, and rice flour makes it both nutritious and delicious, while its versatility ensures it can fit into various dietary preferences. Whether paired with chutney, curd, or ghee, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
