Roti Bawang with a Twist

Recipe

Roti Bawang with a Twist

Crispy Onion Flatbread: A Malaysian Delight

Roti Bawang is a popular Malaysian dish that combines the simplicity of flatbread with the irresistible flavors of caramelized onions. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional dish, elevating it with a crispy texture and a burst of aromatic spices.

Jan Dec

45 minutes

15 minutes

60 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Vegetarian, Vegan (if butter is substituted with a plant-based alternative), Dairy-free (if butter is substituted with a plant-based alternative), Nut-free, Egg-free

Wheat

Gluten-free (due to the use of all-purpose flour)

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and gradually pour in the warm water. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  2. 2.
    Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  3. 3.
    Meanwhile, heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally. This process may take around 15-20 minutes.
  4. 4.
    Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt to the caramelized onions. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. 5.
    Divide the rested dough into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
  6. 6.
    Spread a generous amount of the caramelized onion mixture onto one half of each rolled-out dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal.
  7. 7.
    Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the filled dough circles until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
  8. 8.
    Serve the Roti Bawang hot with a side of spicy sambal or yogurt sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Onions — Make sure to slice the onions thinly to ensure even caramelization.
  • Cumin and coriander — For enhanced flavor, consider toasting the whole seeds and grinding them fresh before using.
  • Turmeric powder — Be cautious as turmeric can stain surfaces and clothing easily.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra crispy texture, you can brush the filled dough circles with a little oil before frying.
  • Experiment with different spice combinations to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
  • If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.
  • Serve the Roti Bawang immediately after frying to enjoy it at its crispiest.

Serving advice

Serve the Roti Bawang as a snack or a light meal. It pairs well with a side of spicy sambal or a cooling yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Roti Bawang on a platter, showcasing their golden brown and crispy exterior. Serve them whole or cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing.