Roti Canai Recipe : Malaysia’s Favorite Flatbread

Roti Canai Recipe : Malaysia’s Favorite Flatbread

Roti Canai Recipe : Malaysia’s Favorite Flatbread

Roti Canai Recipe – Roti Canai is a beloved Malaysian flatbread, celebrated for its flaky, crispy layers and versatile nature. Often served with dhal (lentil curry), chicken curry, or even sugar and condensed milk, this dish is a staple at Malaysian Mamak stalls—open-air eateries that serve Indian Muslim cuisine. Roti Canai’s origins can be traced back to Indian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to Malaysia, creating a dish that has become an integral part of the country’s food culture. Its rich, buttery taste and delightful texture make it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Brief Roti Canai Recipe Information:

Origin Country: Malaysia
Number of Servings: 6 (12 pieces) servings
Number of Calories (per serving): Approximately 300 calories
Preparation Time: 1 hour (plus resting time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Keywords: Malaysian cuisine, Roti Canai, flatbread, Mamak stall, flaky bread

Roti Canai Recipe Essential Ingredients:

For the Dough and cooking:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Guide to Roti Canai Recipe:

  1. Step 1: Making the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, condensed milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Coat each ball with a thin layer of oil and place them on a tray. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rest for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  2. Step 2: Shaping the Roti Canai – On a lightly greased surface, flatten one dough ball with your hands or a rolling pin. Using your fingertips, gently stretch and pull the dough into a very thin, almost translucent sheet. Be careful not to tear it. Fold the edges of the dough inward to form a square, or roll it up into a cylinder and then coil it into a spiral shape. Flatten the dough again with your hands or rolling pin.
  3. Step 3: Cooking the Roti Canai – Heat a griddle or large frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of ghee or vegetable oil. Place the flattened dough onto the hot griddle and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Press down on the roti with a spatula to ensure even cooking and flakiness. Repeat with the remaining dough balls, adding more ghee or oil as needed.
  4. Step 4: Serving the Roti Canai – Serve the hot Roti Canai with dhal, chicken curry, or any preferred dipping sauce. For a sweet version, sprinkle with sugar or drizzle with condensed milk.

Tips for Perfecting Roti Canai:

  • Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for several hours or overnight is crucial for developing the gluten, which helps in achieving the desired flakiness and elasticity.
  • Stretching Technique: Practice makes perfect when it comes to stretching the dough. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect at first; it gets easier with time.
  • Cooking Heat: Maintain medium heat to ensure the roti is cooked through and crispy without burning.
  • Layering: Creating thin, even layers is key to the roti’s flakiness. Take your time to stretch and fold the dough properly.

Roti Canai is more than just a flatbread; it’s a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Malaysia’s diverse food culture. The combination of its flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor creates a delightful eating experience that is both satisfying and versatile.

Whether you’re enjoying Roti Canai at a bustling Mamak stall or making it at home, this dish offers a taste of Malaysia’s vibrant culinary traditions. Embrace the art of making Roti Canai, savor the crispy layers, and share this iconic flatbread with friends and family. Happy cooking!