Nitrate & Nitrite Free Vegan Roti (Chapati)
Warm, soft, and slightly charred from the flame, this flatbread is the kind of thing that makes you want to tear off a piece before it even hits the plate. Made from just whole wheat flour, salt, oil, and water, it's as clean and straightforward as a recipe gets — no cured meats, no processed additives, no hidden preservatives to worry about. That simplicity is exactly what makes it such a natural fit for anyone avoiding nitrates and nitrites, since every single ingredient is exactly what it says it is. The technique is where the magic happens: a hot cast iron skillet followed by a quick turn over an open flame gives each round those gorgeous puffed bubbles and smoky char spots that make homemade roti so satisfying. Kneading the dough until it's smooth and letting it rest before rolling are the two steps that make the difference between a tough flatbread and one that's tender and pliable. A light brush of vegan butter at the end is optional but absolutely worth it. Serve these straight off the heat alongside a curry, dal, or anything saucy and watch them disappear.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- ¾ cup warm water, plus more as needed
- 1 tsp vegan butter, for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together the whole wheat flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the oil and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse, slightly damp sand.
- 2
Pour in the warm water gradually, stirring with a fork or your hand, until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth, soft, and slightly tacky — it should spring back slowly when pressed with a finger. If the dough tears or feels stiff, add water 1 tsp at a time; if it sticks to your hands, dust lightly with flour.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!