Kathi rolls, often called the Indian version of wraps, are a popular street food from Kolkata, India. These delicious rolls perfectly blend succulent filling wrapped in a soft, flaky paratha, making them a favorite snack or meal option. Here’s an in-depth guide to making authentic kathi rolls at home, complete with tips and variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Paratha (Flatbread):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- A pinch of salt
- Water as needed to knead the dough
For the Filling:
- 300 grams boneless chicken (or paneer for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil
For the Egg Layer (optional):
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- Sliced onions
- Sliced bell peppers
- Green chutney
- Tomato ketchup
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh coriander leaves
Instructions
Preparing the Dough:
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth, soft dough. Cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Divide and Roll: Divide the dough into equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin, round paratha using a rolling pin.
Cooking the Paratha:
- Cook on Tawa: Heat a tawa or skillet over medium heat. Cook each paratha until golden brown spots appear on both sides. Apply a little oil or ghee to make them soft and flaky while cooking.
Preparing the Filling:
- Marinate the Chicken/Paneer: In a bowl, combine the chicken (or paneer), ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Filling: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken or paneer until fully cooked and slightly charred. This usually takes 10-12 minutes for chicken and 5-7 minutes for paneer.
Adding the Egg Layer (Optional):
- Prepare the Egg: Beat the eggs with salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Cook the Egg: Pour a portion of the beaten egg on the tawa and place a cooked paratha on top. Let it cook until the egg is set and adheres to the paratha.
Assembling the Kathi Roll:
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the paratha (egg side up if using eggs) on a flat surface. Spread some green chutney and tomato ketchup over it. Add a portion of the cooked filling in the center.
- Add Vegetables: Top the filling with sliced onions, bell peppers, and fresh coriander leaves. Squeeze a little lemon juice over it for extra zest.
- Roll It Up: Carefully roll the paratha tightly, securing the filling inside. You can wrap the bottom half with parchment paper or foil to keep it together and make it easier to eat.
Serving Suggestions:
Kathi rolls are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve them with extra green chutney and lemon wedges on the side. They make a great meal alone or can be paired with a refreshing beverage like a mango lassi or a cold soda.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or mixed vegetables. You can also use mushrooms for a different texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder amount according to your preference. Adding some green chilies to the filling can give it an extra kick.
- Healthy Alternatives: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version of the paratha. You can also skip the egg layer to reduce calories.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with sauces like mayonnaise, mustard, or yogurt-based sauce for a unique flavor profile.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the parathas and filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat them separately before assembling them to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Kathi rolls are a versatile and delicious option for any meal of the day. With a little preparation and some creativity, you can easily make this delightful Indian street food at home. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your twist, Kathi rolls will surely be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and devouring these flavorful wraps that bring a taste of Kolkata to your kitchen!
You can visit NDTV Food or Serious Eats for more detailed recipes and variations. Happy cooking!
