Chapati (Kenyan Unleavened Flatbread)
Soft, layered, and slightly chewy unleavened flatbreads, a popular accompaniment to many Kenyan meals. They are made with flour, water, oil, and salt, then pan-fried to a golden brown.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Warm water(approximately, may need more or less)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil(plus more for cooking)
- 1 tsp Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
💡 Tip: Ensure flour is sifted for a smoother dough. - 2
Pour the vegetable oil into the well. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands or a spoon until a soft, pliable dough forms. You may not need all the water.
💡 Tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky. - 3
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the chapatis softer.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 5
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
- 6
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin, round flatbread, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
- 7
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Place one chapati on the hot surface. Cook for about 30 seconds until small bubbles appear.
⏱️ 30 seconds - 8
Flip the chapati and cook the other side for about 1 minute until golden brown spots appear. Drizzle a little oil around the edges.
⏱️ 1 minute - 9
Flip again and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, pressing gently with a spatula to help it puff up. Repeat with the remaining dough, adding a little oil to the pan as needed.
⏱️ 1 minute - 10
Serve warm, either stacked and wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft, or individually.
💡 Tip: Chapatis are best served fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Don't overwork the dough after the initial kneading, as this can make the chapatis tough.
- ✓Use warm water to help the dough come together smoothly.
- ✓Experiment with different folding techniques for varied textures.
- ✓If the chapatis are sticking, your pan might not be hot enough or you need a little more oil.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of turmeric to the dough for a yellow hue.
- Incorporate finely chopped herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor.
- For a slightly sweet chapati, add a teaspoon of sugar to the dough.