Roti canai, also known as Malaysian flaky bread, is a popular street food that has gained worldwide recognition for its delicious flavor and crispy texture. This easy-to-make recipe allows you to recreate this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Ghee or clarified butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a thin circle using a rolling pin.
4. Brush the surface of the dough with vegetable oil. Fold the dough into a square, then roll it up like a swiss roll.
5. Coil the rolled dough into a spiral shape, tucking the end underneath. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
6. Heat a flat frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Place one of the rolled dough on the pan and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
7. Flip the roti canai and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Brush the surface with ghee or clarified butter.
8. Remove the roti canai from the pan and repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.
9. Serve the roti canai hot with a side of curry or condiments like dhal or sambal.
FAQs:
1. What is roti canai?
Roti canai is a popular Malaysian flaky bread served with curry or condiments.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly different.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in an airtight container.
4. Can I use butter instead of ghee?
Yes, you can use butter as a substitute for ghee.
5. How do I reheat leftover roti canai?
You can reheat it in a toaster oven or on a hot griddle for a few minutes.
6. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
7. How long does it take to cook roti canai?
It takes about 1-2 minutes on each side.
8. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use any vegetable oil of your choice.
9. Can I make roti canai without oil?
Using oil is essential to achieve the flaky texture of roti canai.
10. Can I use a tortilla press to flatten the dough?
A tortilla press may not be suitable as it may not create the desired flakiness.
11. Can I make roti canai gluten-free?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.