Balep - Spiced Indian Flatbread

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup (235ml) water (adjust as needed) 1 cup (235ml) water (adjust as needed)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a dry skillet, toast the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds over medium heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool. Once cooled, grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, ground spices, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the vegetable oil to the flour mixture and rub it in with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually add water to the mixture, kneading the dough until it comes together and is smooth and elastic. Adjust the water quantity as needed.
5. 5.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
7. 7.
   Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the rolled dough on the hot griddle and cook until bubbles start to form on the surface.
8. 8.
   Flip the flatbread and cook the other side until golden brown spots appear.
9. 9.
   Remove from heat and brush with a little ghee or butter for added flavor.
10. 10.
    Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions.
11. 11.
    Serve the Balep warm with your favorite curry, chutney, or enjoy it as a snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Whole wheat flour — Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and boosts the nutritional value of the flatbread. It may require slightly more water during kneading compared to all-purpose flour.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• To make the flatbread more aromatic, lightly crush the cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds before adding them to the dough.
• If you prefer a softer texture, cover the cooked flatbreads with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and moist.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Balep as a side dish with your favorite Indian curries or use it as a wrap for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Balep on a platter, slightly overlapping each other, to showcase their golden-brown color and rustic appearance. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of green.