Chapati (East African Bread)

4.5
(2)

Adopted from Indian cuisine, African bread known as chapati has been a part of East African cuisine for centuries. The East African recipe is slightly different from its Indian counterpart. This bread accompanies African soups and stews well. Preparation is minimal, making this a great choice for cooks in a pinch.

3
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Additional Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
55 mins
Servings:
6
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ¾ cup warm water, or as needed

  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

  • 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour, or as needed

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions

  1. Mix 2 cups flour and salt together in a bowl. Slowly mix in enough water to make a thick dough. Mix in oil until combined.

  2. Knead dough on a cool surface for a few minutes, adding a few spoonfuls of flour. Return dough to the bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rest for 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F (95 degrees C).

  4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

  5. Divide dough into orange-sized balls. Flatten into 6-inch circles.

  6. Fry in batches in the hot skillet, turning once, until golden brown and spotted, 6 to 8 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough. Keep chapatis warm in the oven.

Cook’s Note

Some people use whole wheat or wholemeal flour (brown bread flour).

One method of flattening the dough is to place the dough between sheets of waxed paper and roll it out with a rolling pin.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

182 Calories
3g Fat
33g Carbs
4g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 182
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3g 4%
Saturated Fat 1g 3%
Sodium 389mg 17%
Total Carbohydrate 33g 12%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 4g 9%
Calcium 8mg 1%
Iron 2mg 11%
Potassium 46mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.