Lachha Paratha Recipe, also known as Laccha Paratha, is a multi-layered shallow-fried North Indian flatbread that showcases the art of cooking by transforming simple ingredients into a delicious and tempting dish. This step-by-step photo recipe employs an easy and unique technique to create perfectly layered parathas.
Lachha Paratha Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida) for the dough
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida) for dusting
- Warm water for kneading
- 1 tablespoon oil for the dough, plus more for shallow frying
- Salt to taste
Lachha Paratha Recipe Directions:
Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of oil, and salt.
- Gradually add warm water, a few tablespoons at a time, and knead to form a smooth dough, similar to chapati dough.
- Grease the surface of the dough with 1/2 teaspoon of oil, cover it with a clean muslin cloth, and let it rest at room temperature for 25 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
Step 2:
- Take one dough ball and flatten it into a patty shape between your palms or against a rolling board.
- Coat the flattened dough ball with dry wheat flour.
Step 3:
- Roll out the dough ball into a circular shape, approximately 7-8 inches in diameter or as thin as possible.
- Spread 1/2 teaspoon of ghee or oil evenly over the entire surface and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dry wheat flour over it.
Step 4:
- Hold approximately a 1/3 inch wide strip with your first two fingers and thumb from the top edge of the rolled raw paratha.
- Lift and fold the strip backward so that the top edge remains on top.
Step 5:
- Hold the ends of the pleated strip and repeat the lift and fold backward process until the entire rolled paratha resembles a stack of folded strips.
Step 6
- Hold each end of the long stacked pleated strip with your fingers and thumb, then lift the strip slowly away from the rolling board and give it a few gentle swings to stretch it slightly.
Step 7:
- Horizontally place the elongated strip on the rolling board.
Step 8:
- Roll it up like a Swiss roll and press and stick the outer end against the roll’s immediate surface. Repeat this process for the remaining rolls.
Step 9:
- Take one roll and place it horizontally on the rolling board. Coat it with dry wheat flour and gently roll it out without applying too much pressure to give it a round shape, approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
Step 10:
- Heat a tawa or griddle over medium flame and place the raw lachha paratha on the hot tawa.
- When tiny bubbles rise on the surface, flip the paratha upside down.
- Spread 1 teaspoon of oil over each side with a spatula and cook until both sides are evenly golden brown.
Step 11:
- Transfer the cooked paratha to a plate and spread butter or ghee according to your preference. Repeat the process for the remaining rolls.
- Soft and crispy lachha parathas are ready to be served.
Lachha Paratha Recipe Tips and Variations:
- You can replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Using ghee instead of oil to knead the dough results in softer and crispier parathas.
- Avoid applying too much pressure while rolling out the parathas to ensure more visible layers.
- Lachha parathas pair well with dishes like dal makhani, chickpea curry, tomato salad, or sour mango pickle for a filling breakfast with tea or coffee.
Taste: Soft layers concealed by crisp outer layers.
Serving Ideas: Serve with dal makhani, chickpea curry, tomato salad, or sour mango pickle for a hearty lunch or as a tummy-filling breakfast with tea or coffee.
Conclusion:
Lachha Paratha Recipe is a delightful North Indian flatbread known for its flaky texture and delicious taste. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can easily recreate this culinary delight at home. Whether served with a variety of curries or enjoyed on its own, Lachha Paratha is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and aroma. Experiment with different variations and toppings to customize it according to your preference. Enjoy this versatile flatbread as a hearty meal or snack anytime!
FAQs about Lachha Paratha Recipe
What is Lachha Paratha?
Lachha Paratha, also known as Layered Paratha, is a multi-layered shallow-fried North Indian flatbread that boasts a flaky texture and delicious taste. It is prepared by rolling out dough into thin layers, folding them, and then cooking them on a griddle.
How is Lachha Paratha different from regular paratha?
Lachha Paratha is distinguished by its unique layered texture, achieved by folding and rolling out the dough multiple times. This results in a flakier and more visually appealing appearance compared to traditional parathas.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to make Lachha Paratha?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to make a healthier version of Lachha Paratha. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may slightly differ from the traditional recipe.
How do I achieve the perfect layers in Lachha Paratha?
To achieve perfect layers, ensure that you roll out the dough thinly and evenly. Additionally, applying oil or ghee between the layers helps in creating distinct layers during the cooking process.
Can I make Lachha Paratha in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough for Lachha Paratha in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to cook, simply roll out the dough and follow the cooking instructions as usual.
