Tanzanian Chapati
Tanzanian Chapati is a soft, layered, and flavorful unleavened flatbread, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a side dish to savory stews and curries. Its preparation involves a unique kneading and resting technique that results in its characteristic tenderness and texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Salt
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil(plus more for brushing and cooking)
- 1 cup Warm water(approximately, or as needed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes.
- 2
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter. Brush each circle lightly with oil.
- 3
Fold the oiled circle in half, then in half again to form a triangle. Gently stretch the triangle to about 6 inches. Roll the triangle into a coil, then flatten the coil into a disc.
- 4
Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each chapati for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown spots appear. Brush with a little oil during cooking.
- 5
Stack the cooked chapatis and cover them with a clean cloth to keep them soft and warm until serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Kneading the dough thoroughly is key to achieving a soft chapati.
- ✓Allowing the dough to rest helps develop gluten, making it easier to work with.
- ✓Brushing with oil and the folding technique creates the characteristic layers.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of sugar to the dough for a slightly sweeter chapati.
- Serve with a side of Tanzanian curry or stew.