Parathas with Yogurt – Indian-style flatbread served with yogurt.

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly made parathas wafting through the house. This Indian-style flatbread, golden and crisp on the outside yet soft and tender on the inside, has long been a staple in many households. Pairing parathas with creamy, tangy yogurt creates a harmonious blend of flavors that can turn a simple meal into a culinary experience. When I made this delightful combination for my family, it was an instant hit. The parathas were devoured within minutes, and the yogurt added a refreshing contrast that complemented the spices perfectly. This dish is not only a testament to the rich culinary tradition of India but also a versatile option that promises to satisfy both the palate and the soul.

Ingredients

To create this delicious paratha and yogurt meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
• Water, as needed to knead the dough
• 1 cup of plain yogurt
• Optional: Chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for garnish
• Optional: Spices like cumin, coriander, or chili powder for seasoning yogurt

Instructions

Creating parathas is a straightforward process, but it does require some attention to detail to achieve the perfect texture.

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a smooth, soft dough. The consistency should be pliable but not sticky.

Step 2: Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls. Roll each ball between your palms to smoothen out any cracks.

Step 3: On a floured surface, roll each ball into a flat disc using a rolling pin. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Step 4: Heat a skillet or tava over medium heat and add a little oil or ghee. Place the rolled-out paratha on the skillet.

Step 5: Cook the paratha until golden brown spots appear on one side, then flip to cook the other side. Add more oil or ghee as needed.

Step 6: Once cooked, remove the paratha from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

Step 7: Serve the hot parathas with a side of plain yogurt. You can enhance the yogurt by adding herbs and spices according to your taste.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving of parathas with yogurt offers a satisfying and nutritious meal. The recipe serves four people, and each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Proteins: 7g
• Fats: 10g

Preparation Time

One of the many benefits of making parathas is their relatively quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in about 45 minutes:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

There are several ways to serve parathas with yogurt, making them a versatile addition to any meal:

• As a standalone dish, simply pair with a bowl of yogurt for a light meal.
• Accompany with pickles or chutney for an extra flavor boost.
• Serve alongside a hearty curry or stew for a more substantial meal.
• Use parathas as a wrap for grilled vegetables or meats.
• Include in a brunch spread with other Indian delicacies.

Additional Tips

To ensure your parathas and yogurt are a success, consider the following tips:

• Tip 1: Rest the dough for at least 15 minutes before rolling it out. This helps in achieving a softer texture.
• Tip 2: Use a hot skillet to ensure the parathas cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
• Tip 3: Experiment with adding different fillings to the parathas, such as mashed potatoes, paneer, or spiced vegetables.
• Tip 4: Customize the yogurt by adding chopped onions, tomatoes, or cucumbers for a raita-inspired dip.
• Tip 5: Store leftover parathas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated on a skillet or microwave.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make parathas with gluten-free flour?

A1: Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends to make parathas. However, the texture might differ slightly, and you may need to experiment with the dough consistency.

Q2: Is there a vegan alternative to this recipe?

A2: Certainly! You can replace yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use oil instead of ghee for vegan parathas.

Q3: How do I prevent parathas from becoming too oily?

A3: To prevent excess oil absorption, ensure the skillet is hot enough before cooking the parathas and use a minimal amount of oil or ghee.

Q4: Can I freeze parathas for later use?

A4: Yes, you can freeze cooked parathas. Cool them completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Q5: What can I do if my yogurt is too sour?

A5: If your yogurt is too sour, try balancing the flavor by adding a pinch of sugar or mixing in some fresh cream to mellow the tanginess.