Navalkol Thepla Recipe – Authentic Indian Flatbread with Sesame Seeds

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Navalkol Thepla Recipe – Authentic Indian Flatbread with Sesame Seeds

Introduction

Oh, Thepla! Just the smell of these cooking on a hot griddle instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. This isn’t just any thepla, though. This is Navalkol Thepla – a slightly lesser-known but incredibly flavorful variation made with the wonderfully unique Navalkol greens. I first made these when I was craving something comforting and a little different, and they’ve been a family favorite ever since. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or even a travel snack. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Navalkol Theplas are more than just delicious; they’re packed with goodness! The Navalkol greens add a lovely earthy flavor and a boost of nutrients. Plus, the combination of wheat flour and rajgira flour makes them surprisingly wholesome. They’re also wonderfully versatile – you can adjust the spice level to your liking and even adapt them to suit dietary needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful theplas:

• 3 cup Navalkol Greens (Navalkol)
• 2 cup Wheat Flour (approx. 250g)
• 1 cup Rajgira (Amaranth) flour (approx. 100g)
• 1 tablespoon Curd (approx. 15ml)
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Cream (Malai)
• ?? teaspoon Chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger Garlic Paste
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
• ?? teaspoon Cumin Powder (adjust to taste)
• ?? teaspoon Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
• ?? teaspoon Turmeric Powder (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 teaspoon Sugar (or to taste)
• 2-3 tablespoon Sesame Seeds
• 2 tablespoon Oil
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients to make sure your theplas turn out perfectly:

Navalkol Greens (Navalkol): A Unique & Nutritious Choice

Navalkol is a leafy green vegetable popular in Gujarat and Rajasthan. It has a slightly earthy and subtly sweet flavor. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a super healthy addition to your diet. If you can’t find it fresh, you might find it frozen in Indian grocery stores.

Rajgira (Amaranth) Flour: Health Benefits & Flavor Profile

Rajgira flour, also known as amaranth flour, adds a lovely nutty flavor and a slightly grainy texture to the theplas. It’s a fantastic source of protein and iron, making these theplas even more nutritious.

The Role of Fresh Cream (Malai) in Thepla

Don’t skip the malai! A little bit of fresh cream adds a wonderful tenderness and richness to the theplas. It helps bind the dough and keeps them soft. If you don’t have fresh cream, you can substitute with a tablespoon of milk, but the malai really makes a difference.

Regional Variations in Spice Levels

Spice levels in theplas vary greatly depending on the region and personal preference. Some families like them mild, while others prefer a fiery kick! Feel free to adjust the chili paste and red chili powder to your liking.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to making these delicious theplas!

1. Heat ?? tsp oil in a pan. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add chopped kohlrabi greens, cook covered until tender. Let cool completely. This is important – warm greens will affect the dough consistency.
3. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except sesame seeds. Add water gradually to form a stiff dough. Don’t add too much water at once! Let the dough rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flours to hydrate.
4. Knead the dough for 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic. It should be firm, not sticky.
5. Divide the dough into lemon-sized balls.
6. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, ensuring they’re well coated. Then, flatten each ball into a thick disc using wheat flour for dusting. Aim for about 4-5 inches in diameter.
7. Cook the theplas on a hot griddle with oil until golden brown spots appear on both sides. Flip them carefully!

Expert Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the best Navalkol Theplas:

Kneading the Dough for Perfect Texture

Proper kneading is key! It develops the gluten in the wheat flour, resulting in a soft and pliable dough.

Achieving the Right Consistency for Rolling

The dough should be firm enough to roll without sticking, but not so dry that it cracks. Add water a teaspoon at a time if needed.

Cooking Theplas to Golden Perfection

Don’t overcrowd the griddle. Cook the theplas one or two at a time to ensure they cook evenly.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Thepla Adaptation

Simply substitute the curd and fresh cream with plant-based yogurt and vegan cream.

Gluten-Free Thepla Adaptation (Using Alternative Flours)

Replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You might need to adjust the amount of water to achieve the right consistency.

Spice Level Adjustments: Mild, Medium, and Spicy

• Mild: Omit the chili paste and reduce the red chili powder to ¼ teaspoon.
• Medium: Use ½ teaspoon chili paste and ½ teaspoon red chili powder.
• Spicy: Use 1 teaspoon chili paste and 1 teaspoon red chili powder.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Janmashtami, Diwali)

My aunt always adds a pinch of nutmeg and cardamom to the dough during Janmashtami for a festive touch!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with your favorite chutney (mango chutney is a classic!) and a side of yogurt. They’re also delicious with a cup of masala chai.

Storage Instructions

Theplas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQs

What is Navalkol and where can I find it?

Navalkol is a leafy green vegetable, similar to kohlrabi greens, popular in Indian cuisine. You can find it at Indian grocery stores, especially those specializing in Gujarati or Rajasthani produce.

Can I use other greens if Navalkol is unavailable?

Yes, you can! Spinach, fenugreek leaves (methi), or even kale can be used as substitutes, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How can I make the theplas softer?

Adding a little more fresh cream or yogurt to the dough can help make them softer. Also, don’t overcook them on the griddle.

Can I freeze the theplas for later?

Absolutely! Stack the cooked theplas with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on a griddle or in a pan.

What is the best chutney to serve with Navalkol Thepla?

Mango chutney is a classic pairing, but mint-coriander chutney or even a sweet tamarind chutney also work beautifully.