Smoky Bajra Roti: A Gluten-Free Delight

Bajra roti, also known as pearl millet flatbread, is a traditional Indian bread commonly eaten in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat. It’s gluten-free and nutritious. Here’s a simple recipe to make bajra roti:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
• Warm water (as needed)
• Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, take the bajra flour. You can sieve the flour if it’s not finely ground.
   • Gradually add warm water to the flour and start kneading.
   • Keep adding water little by little and knead until you get a soft and pliable dough. The consistency should be such that you can make smooth balls out of it.
2. Divide and Shape:
   • Divide the dough into equal-sized portions, depending on the size of the rotis you want to make.
   • Take one portion of the dough and shape it into a smooth ball between your palms.
3. Roll Out:
   • Place the ball on a flat surface dusted with some bajra flour to prevent sticking.
   • Flatten the ball slightly and then start rolling it out gently into a round shape using a rolling pin. Keep rotating the dough while rolling to get an even thickness.
4. Cook the Roti:
   • Heat a tawa (griddle) or a flat pan over medium-high heat.
   • Once the tawa is hot, carefully transfer the rolled-out roti onto it.
   • Let it cook for about a minute or until you start seeing bubbles forming on the surface.
   • Flip the roti and let it cook on the other side for another minute.
5. Roast on Open Flame (Optional):
   • If you have a gas stove, you can also roast the roti directly on an open flame using tongs. This will give a nice smoky flavor to the roti.
   • Hold the cooked roti with tongs and place it directly on the flame. Keep rotating it until it puffs up and gets roasted evenly on both sides.
6. Serve:
   • Once done, remove the roti from the flame or tawa and smear a little ghee (clarified butter) on top if desired.
   • Serve hot with your favorite curry, dal, or any side dish of your choice.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious bajra roti!