I’m excited to share my recipe for Roti Canai, a super delicious Malaysian flatbread that’s a hit with everyone who stops by my food truck. This flaky, crispy bread is made from simple dough, stretched thin, and cooked on a hot griddle. We serve it with a rich curry dipping sauce—usually dhal or chicken curry—and it’s the perfect combo of savory and satisfying. As a food truck owner, I love seeing smiles when I serve this lah! Let’s get cooking and bring some Malaysian vibes to your kitchen.
What is Roti Canai?
Roti Canai is a yummy flatbread from Malaysia, all about that crispy, layered texture. We make the dough with flour, water, and a bit of fat, then stretch it super thin before folding and cooking it on the tawa (griddle). Pair it with our special curry, and you’ve got a meal that’s sedap (delicious) and filling. It’s a breakfast or anytime treat at my truck!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Roti Canai
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil (plus extra for cooking)
- 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- Extra oil for stretching
For the Dhal Curry
- 1 cup yellow lentils (dhal), rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a big bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil, then slowly pour in the water. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it’s soft and smooth, like a baby’s cheek lah! If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1-2 hours. This makes it easier to stretch later.
Step 2: Divide and Shape
After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal balls. Rub each ball with a little oil and place them on a plate. Cover again and let them rest for another 30 minutes. This step is key for that flaky roti!
Step 3: Stretch the Dough
On a clean, oiled surface, take one dough ball. Flatten it with your hands, then stretch it super thin—almost see-through! Don’t worry if it tears a bit; it’s all part of the fun. Fold the edges toward the center to make a square, then set aside. Repeat with the other balls.
Step 4: Cook the Roti
Heat a tawa or flat griddle over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of ghee or oil. Place one folded roti on the griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden and crispy. Press it down with a spatula to get those nice layers. Keep warm while you cook the rest.
Step 5: Make the Dhal Curry
In a pot, boil the lentils with 2 cups of water until soft, about 20 minutes. In another pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden. Add turmeric, cumin, and chili powder, stirring for 1 minute. Pour in the cooked lentils, coconut milk, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes until thick and creamy. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Stack the hot roti canai on a plate and serve with a bowl of dhal curry on the side. Let your customers—or family—tear the roti and dip it into the curry. Add a smile, and you’ve got a Malaysian street food moment right at home!Tips for Success
- Rest the Dough: Don’t skip the resting time—it makes stretching easier lah!
- Stretching Trick: Use oiled hands to avoid sticking, and don’t be shy to stretch it thin.
- Curry Heat: Adjust chili powder to make it mild or spicy for your crowd.
- Freshness: Serve hot for the best crispy texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg (varies based on salt)
- Key Nutrients: Good source of carbs (from flour), protein (from lentils), and healthy fats (from coconut milk).
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 1.5-2 hours resting)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Final Thoughts
Running a food truck, I’ve learned that Roti Canai is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together with its crispy layers and tasty curry. It’s simple to make but feels special lah! Whether you’re feeding your family or trying a new menu item, this recipe will make your taste buds happy. Grab your ingredients, get that tawa hot, and let’s make some sedap Roti Canai together!
