Ajwain Mirch Paratha recipe
20 min
2 people
10 min
Introduction:
Imagine the tantalizing aroma of freshly roasted spices filling the air, teasing your taste buds with promises of a culinary adventure. That's the magic of Ajwain Mirch Paratha—a dish that holds a special place in my culinary journey. I vividly remember the first time I encountered this delightful creation. It was during a family gathering where my grandmother, with her deft hands and culinary wisdom, introduced me to the magic of ajwain and mirch combined in a warm, flaky paratha. From that moment on, this recipe became a staple in my kitchen, not just for its exquisite flavor but also for the fond memories it evokes.
Recipe of Lachha Paratha
Ingredients:
- Atta Dough (Wheat Flour dough)
- Wheat Flour for dusting
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Ajwain (Carom Seeds)
- Chopped Green Chillies
- Salt to taste
- Red Chilli pickle (as accompaniment)
- 1 tsp Kasuri Methi (dried Fenugreek Leaves)
Method:
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Prepare Atta Dough:
- Knead wheat flour with water and salt to make a smooth dough.
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Roll Out the Dough:
- Take a small portion of the atta dough and roll it into a ball. Dust it with wheat flour.
- Roll out the dough into a thin roti. Sprinkle some flour on it to prevent sticking.
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Season and Layer:
- Spread some olive oil evenly over the rolled roti.
- Sprinkle salt, ajwain, chopped green chilies, and kasuri methi over the roti.
- Dust some wheat flour over the seasoned roti.
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Fold and Roll:
- Fold the roti into several pleats, like folding a saree.
- Roll the pleated roti into a layered round ball, starting from one end to the other. Press it gently.
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Roll Out Again:
- Dust the layered ball with flour and roll it out again into a flat, layered lachha paratha.
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Cook the Paratha:
- Heat a tawa (griddle) on the flame. Place the lachha paratha on the hot tawa.
- Cook one side until it starts to puff up and brown spots appear. Flip it over.
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Add Oil:
- Spread some olive oil on the cooked side of the paratha. Flip it over and repeat with the other side.
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Serve:
- Once both sides are cooked and crispy, remove the lachha paratha from the tawa.
- Garnish with fresh coriander sprigs.
- Serve hot with red chili pickle or any other accompaniment of your choice.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful lachha paratha!
About the Recipe:
Ajwain Mirch Paratha is a popular Indian flatbread infused with the robust flavors of carom seeds (ajwain) and green chilies (mirch). The dough is typically made with whole wheat flour, water, salt, and a generous amount of ajwain seeds and finely chopped green chilies. The mixture is kneaded into a smooth dough, divided into portions, rolled out into discs, and then cooked on a hot griddle with a drizzle of oil or ghee until golden brown and crisp. The result is a fragrant, spicy, and utterly delicious flatbread that pairs perfectly with a variety of Indian dishes or can be enjoyed on its own with a dollop of yogurt or pickle.
Cooking Tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that the ajwain seeds and green chilies used in the recipe are fresh for maximum flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your preference for spice. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor or increase the quantity for extra heat.
- Knead the Dough Well: Take time to knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten and achieve a soft and pliable texture.
- Roll Out Evenly: Roll out the dough portions evenly to ensure that the parathas cook uniformly and puff up nicely.
- Cook on Medium-High Heat: Cook the parathas on a medium-high heat griddle to achieve a crisp exterior while ensuring that the insides are cooked through.
- Brush with Ghee: For added flavor and richness, brush the cooked parathas with melted ghee before serving.
Pairing Guide:
- Indian Curries: Serve Ajwain Mirch Paratha with a variety of Indian curries such as butter chicken, palak paneer, or dal makhani for a satisfying meal.
- Chutneys and Pickles: Accompany the parathas with a selection of chutneys, pickles, or raita to enhance the flavor and provide a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ajwain Mirch Paratha:
- What is ajwain mirch paratha?
- Ajwain mirch paratha is a type of Indian flatbread flavored with carom seeds (ajwain) and green chilies (mirch), known for its spicy and aromatic taste.
- How spicy is ajwain mirch paratha?
- The spiciness of ajwain mirch paratha can vary depending on the quantity of green chilies used. Adjust the amount according to your preference for spice.
- Can I make ajwain mirch paratha without green chilies?
- Yes, you can omit green chilies from the recipe if you prefer a milder flavor. However, keep in mind that green chilies contribute to the unique taste of the paratha.
- What are the health benefits of ajwain mirch paratha?
- Ajwain mirch paratha contains carom seeds, which are known for their digestive properties, making it a good option for aiding digestion. Additionally, whole wheat flour used in the paratha provides fiber and nutrients.
- Can I use oil instead of ghee for cooking ajwain mirch paratha?
- Yes, you can use oil for cooking ajwain mirch paratha if you prefer a vegan option or want to reduce the fat content. However, ghee adds a rich flavor to the paratha.
- How do I store leftover ajwain mirch paratha?
- Allow the parathas to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
- Can I freeze ajwain mirch paratha?
- Yes, you can freeze ajwain mirch paratha for longer storage. Place the cooled parathas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen on a hot griddle or microwave.
- Is ajwain mirch paratha gluten-free?
- No, ajwain mirch paratha is not gluten-free as it is made with whole wheat flour, which contains gluten. Consider using gluten-free flour alternatives if you need a gluten-free option.
- Can I make ajwain mirch paratha ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough for ajwain mirch paratha ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Roll out and cook the parathas when ready to serve.
- What are some variations of ajwain mirch paratha?
- Some variations of ajwain mirch paratha include adding grated vegetables like carrots or spinach to the dough for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices or herbs to customize the taste according to your liking.