Authentic Indian Roti Recipe- Corn & Wheat Tortillas with Cumin

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Roti Recipe – Corn & Wheat Tortillas with Cumin

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about warm, soft roti, isn’t there? I remember my dadi (grandmother) making these almost daily, and the smell would fill the entire house. This recipe isn’t quite the same as her classic wheat rotis, though – it’s a delightful twist using corn flour alongside the wheat, giving it a lovely texture and subtle sweetness. These corn and wheat tortillas, spiced with cumin and a touch of cayenne, are perfect with a hearty curry. They’re a little different, a little special, and I’m so excited to share them with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average rotis! They’re wonderfully soft, slightly chewy, and have a beautiful golden color. The cumin and cayenne add a warm, inviting spice that complements so many Indian dishes. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to making Indian breads.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious tortillas:

• 1.5 cup Yellow corn flour (Masa Harina) – about 150g
• 0.5 cup Whole wheat flour – about 60g
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Cumin powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 1.33 cups Warm water – about 315ml

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because getting these right makes all the difference!

Yellow Corn Flour (Masa Harina) – A Traditional Staple

Masa Harina is key here. It’s not the same as cornmeal! It’s made from corn that’s been nixtamalized – a process that gives it a unique flavor and makes the nutrients more bioavailable. You can usually find it in the international aisle of most supermarkets, or at Latin American grocery stores.

Whole Wheat Flour – Adding Nutrients and Texture

I love using whole wheat flour for a bit of extra nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor. You can substitute all-purpose flour if you prefer, but the whole wheat adds a lovely depth.

Cumin and Cayenne – The Spice Blend

Don’t be shy with the cumin! It’s what gives these rotis their signature flavor. The cayenne adds a gentle warmth – feel free to adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like things.

Water Temperature – Importance of Warm Water

Warm water is important for activating the gluten in the flour and creating a smooth, pliable dough. It doesn’t need to be scalding hot, just comfortably warm to the touch.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, in a large bowl, combine the corn flour, whole wheat flour, salt, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper. Give it a good mix to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Now, gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands until a smooth dough forms. You might need a little more or less water depending on the humidity, so add it slowly!
3. Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal balls. This is where a kitchen scale can be handy!
5. Place each ball between two pieces of Ziploc bag (or parchment paper) and roll it out into a 5-6 inch circle. The plastic helps prevent sticking.
6. Heat a skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium heat.
7. Cook each tortilla for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly puffed up.
8. As they cook, stack the tortillas on a plate and cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook the tortillas in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time.
• A slightly unevenly shaped roti tastes just as good! Don’t stress about making them perfect circles.

Variations

• Garlic Lovers: Add a teaspoon of minced garlic to the dough for a garlicky kick. My husband loves this!
• Herb Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of turmeric or garam masala to the dough for extra warmth and complexity.

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Gluten-Free Considerations

While masa harina is gluten-free, whole wheat flour contains gluten. To make this recipe fully gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Spice Level Adjustment

If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. If you like things really hot, add a pinch of chili powder!

Festival Adaptations (e.g., pairing with Holi dishes)

These rotis are fantastic with vibrant, flavorful dishes served during festivals like Holi. They pair beautifully with dahi bhalle or aloo tikki.

Serving Suggestions

These rotis are incredibly versatile! They’re amazing with:

• Rajma Masala (kidney bean curry)
• Chole (chickpea curry)
• Dal Makhani (black lentil curry)
• Any of your favorite Indian curries!

Storage Instructions

Leftover rotis can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a skillet or in the microwave. You can also freeze them for longer storage – just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

FAQs

What is Masa Harina and where can I find it?

Masa Harina is a traditional corn flour used in Mexican and Central American cuisine. It’s made from corn that’s been treated with an alkaline solution, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. You can find it in the international aisle of most supermarkets, or at Latin American grocery stores.

Can I use cold water instead of warm water?

While you can use cold water, warm water helps to activate the gluten in the flour and create a smoother, more pliable dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just prepare the dough as instructed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming too hard?

Keep the cooked tortillas covered with a clean kitchen towel to trap the steam and keep them soft. You can also brush them lightly with ghee or butter.

What other curries or dishes pair well with these rotis?

These rotis are delicious with almost any Indian curry! They also pair well with vegetable stir-fries, lentil soups, and even scrambled eggs.

Can I cook these on a tawa instead of a skillet?

Absolutely! A tawa is the traditional Indian griddle used for making rotis. If you have one, feel free to use it. Just make sure it’s well-heated before you start cooking.