Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the fresh methi leaves thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and grit. Pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel because excess moisture makes the dough sticky and difficult to roll.
- Remove the leaves from the thick stems and chop them finely. Smaller pieces distribute evenly throughout the dough and prevent tearing during rolling.
- Add whole wheat flour, salt, ajwain, red chili powder, and turmeric to a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together so the spices spread evenly through the flour.
- Toss the chopped methi leaves into the flour mixture. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add water while mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead gently for 3 to 4 minutes until smooth because overworking develops too much gluten and creates tough parathas.
- Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Resting relaxes the gluten strands, making the dough easier to roll and the final parathas softer.
- Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball. Dust a ball lightly with flour and roll it into a circle about 6 to 7 inches in diameter.
- Heat a tawa or flat griddle over medium high heat until very hot. Place the rolled paratha on the hot surface and cook until small bubbles appear on top, then flip.
- Brush ghee or oil on the cooked side while the second side cooks. Flip again, apply ghee to the other side, and press gently with a spatula until golden brown spots appear on both sides.
- Transfer the cooked paratha to a plate lined with a kitchen towel or place in a casserole to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining dough balls, stacking as you go.
Notes
Squeeze the washed methi leaves in a kitchen towel to remove every drop of water before chopping. Use young, tender methi leaves as mature ones taste more bitter. Add a pinch of sugar to the dough to balance the natural bitterness of fenugreek. Store cooked parathas in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 1 month.
