6 ways to keep your rotis soft and fresh till lunchtime

From kneading the dough to storing chapatis the right way, these simple kitchen tips will keep your rotis soft and fresh for hours. (Image: Pexels)

• Use lukewarm water or milk for dough to keep rotis soft and fresh.
• Knead dough well, let it rest, and add ghee or oil for extra softness.
• Store rotis wrapped in cloth in airtight containers to retain moisture.

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Rotis are best enjoyed when they are hot and fresh off the tawa, but many have to carry them in lunchboxes to school or office. This takes their softness away, making them dry and difficult to chew. However, this can be avoided if you follow a few simple tricks that start right from the way you knead your dough to the way you store chapatis.

How to make soft and fresh rotis

Use lukewarm water or milk for the dough

Start by mixing flour with lukewarm water or milk. This improves hydration and adds richness to the flour, resulting in a smoother, softer dough. It activates the gluten slowly, making the rotis stay fresh for a long time.

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Knead the dough properly and let it rest

The trick lies in kneading the dough properly, even if it takes more time. A well-kneaded dough locks in moisture and is soft and smooth when pressed. The dough should be allowed to rest for 20-30 minutes, as it gives gluten time to relax. Cover it with a damp cloth or lid to avoid dryness.

Add a hint of ghee or oil

Just a spoonful of ghee or oil can make a big difference to the texture while kneading the dough. It lubricates the gluten and seals the moisture, making your rotis stay soft for hours. Drizzle it over prepared dough and allow it to rest for just a few extra minutes.

Roll the dough gently and correctly

This step cannot be overlooked, as thickness can lead rotis to become stiff and hard. Roll the dough with gentle hands, don’t press too hard and aim for lighter strokes. Ensure the roti is evenly rolled out, as it will puff well and stay light and soft later.

Use the right heat to cook

Cooking them at the right temperature is crucial. If the tawa is too hot, it can turn the rotis dry, and if it’s on low heat, it is hard to cook them. Use medium heat to ensure a puffy roti, turn sides at the right time to ensure it’s nice and brown.

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Store them the right way

The trick is to stack the rotis without letting out the steam. This helps trap moisture and keeps them soft for hours. Wrap them in a clean cotton or muslin cloth before putting them into air tight containers or lunchboxes.