Chapati is also spelled as chapatti,
chappati, chapathi, or chappathi, also known as roti, safati, shabaati, phulka
and (in the Maldives) roshi. Chapatis
are made of whole-wheat flour known as atta, mixed into dough with water,
edible oil and optional salt in a mixing utensil called a parat, and is cooked
on a tava (flat skillet). Chapati dough is typically prepared with flour, salt
and water, kneaded with the knuckles of the hand made into a fist and left to
proof for at least 10 or 15 minutes to an hour for the gluten in the dough to
develop. After proofing, the dough becomes softer and more pliable. Small
portions of the dough are pinched off and formed into round balls that are
pressed between the two palms to form discs which are then dipped into flour
and rolled out on a circular rolling board (a chakla), using a rolling pin
known as a velan or belan, into a flat disc.The rolled-out dough is then
thrown on the preheated dry tava and cooked on both sides.
In some regions of the Indian subcontinent chapatis are only partially cooked on the skillet, and then cooked directly over a flame, which makes them rise. The hot stream cooks the chapati rapidly from the inside. In some parts of northern India and eastern Pakistan, this is called a phulka. In southern parts of India, it is called a pulka. It is also possible to puff up the roti directly on the tava. Once cooked, chapatis are often topped with butter or ghee. In western regions of Maharashtra, some oil is added inside rolled out dough and then put on tava, this is distinct from paratha.
In some regions of the Indian subcontinent chapatis are only partially cooked on the skillet, and then cooked directly over a flame, which makes them rise. The hot stream cooks the chapati rapidly from the inside. In some parts of northern India and eastern Pakistan, this is called a phulka. In southern parts of India, it is called a pulka. It is also possible to puff up the roti directly on the tava. Once cooked, chapatis are often topped with butter or ghee. In western regions of Maharashtra, some oil is added inside rolled out dough and then put on tava, this is distinct from paratha.
There are many regional varieties
of chapati in India.
- Paneer chapati: Grated paneer is added to the usual chapati dough which is also called 'Paneer Paratha'(The Paratha means stuffed Chapati/Bread).
- Radish or mullangi chapati: Grated radish and turmeric powder is added to the dough and the chapati is usually thick. It is often eaten by lorry drivers who eat in roadside dhabas during long trips. It is also called 'Mooli Paratha'.
- Vegetable-stuffed chapati: Mashed carrot, potato, peas, and fenugreek are slightly sautéed into a masala gravy. These chapatis are usually served rolled, and many households prepare them using their own combinations of available vegetables.
- Alloo paratha: (Chapati stuffed with boiled Potato and onions) is very famous in Northern parts of India especially New Delhi, Punjab and hilly areas of Shimla. It is eaten along with Pickle and Curd. In winters there are two more varieties of Parathas i.e. the Gobhi Paratha (Chapati stuffed with Cauliflower) and Mooli Paratha (Chapati Stuffed with Raddish).
Here are some of my favourite chapati recipes on my blog
Chapati – FAQs
1. What is chapati?
Chapati is an unleavened flatbread made from whole wheat flour, water, and optionally a bit of salt or oil. It's a staple in East African and South Asian cuisines, often cooked on a hot griddle (tava).
2. Is chapati the same as roti?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, chapati is a type of roti. However, chapati is usually thinner and softer, especially in East African preparation.
3. What flour is used for chapati?
Whole wheat flour is traditionally used — commonly atta in Indian-style chapatis. In East African versions, all-purpose flour is sometimes added for softness.
4. Is oil or ghee necessary?
Not always. Traditional chapatis use no oil in the dough or cooking. But a small amount of oil or ghee can add softness and flavor.
5. Can chapatis be stored?
Yes. Once cooled, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days or frozen for longer. Reheat on a skillet for best results.
Nutrition Card – Approx. per 1 medium chapati (about 45g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value (DV) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120–140 kcal | — | Depends on oil use |
| Protein | 3–4 g | 6–8% | From whole wheat |
| Carbohydrates | 20–22 g | 7–8% | Mostly complex carbs |
| Fiber | 2–3 g | 8–12% | A good source of dietary fiber |
| Fat | 3–5 g (with oil) | 5–8% | Less or none if cooked oil-free |
| Sodium | 50–100 mg | 2–4% | From added salt, if any |
| Iron | 6–8% | From whole wheat flour | |
| Calcium | 1–2% | Minimal |
Dietary Compatibility & Notes
| Diet Type | Compatible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | ❌ No | Made with wheat flour |
| Dairy-Free | ✅ Yes | Unless ghee or butter is used |
| Keto/Low-Carb | ❌ No | High in carbs |
| Paleo | ❌ No | Contains grains |
| Whole30 | ❌ No | Grains are excluded on Whole30 |
| Vegetarian | ✅ Yes | 100% plant-based |
| Vegan | ✅ Yes | As long as no dairy is added |
Cooking Tip:
For soft, pliable chapatis, let the dough rest 30–60 minutes before rolling. Cook on a hot dry skillet and flip quickly to avoid drying out.
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.
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