In everyone's life, there are certain tastes that touch not just the tongue, but the heart as well. A warm, sweet chini paratha (sugar flatbread) made by a grandmother's hands is one such taste. That sweet aroma, the crisp edges, and the melting sugar layers—it all transports one back to childhood memories. Even in today's fast-paced life, this simple recipe allows you to relive that sweet sensation.
This article presents a straightforward recipe for a traditional chini paratha, requiring no complicated steps or expensive ingredients. The best part? It's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a light snack or children's tiffin. Let's learn how to make this delicious chini paratha in minutes.
Ingredients
- Wheat flour - 1 cup
- Water - as needed
- Sugar - 2-3 tablespoons (to taste)
- Ghee (clarified butter) - for cooking
- Cardamom powder (optional) - 1/4 teaspoon
Method: Making Sweet and Crispy Chini Paratha
- Knead the dough: In a deep bowl, take wheat flour and gradually add water, kneading it into a soft, smooth dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 10 minutes to set properly.
- Prepare the dough balls: Take a medium-sized ball of dough and roll it out with a rolling pin to the size of a roti (flatbread), but keep it slightly thicker. Ensure the edges aren't too thin, otherwise the sugar might leak out.
- Add the filling: Place 1-2 teaspoons of sugar in the center of the rolled dough. If desired, add a pinch of cardamom powder for an enhanced aroma and flavor.
- Seal the paratha: Bring the edges of the dough together over the filling and gently press to seal. Roll it out again lightly with a rolling pin, being careful not to let the sugar escape.
- Cook the paratha: Heat a griddle (tawa) and place the paratha on it. Cook on medium heat until lightly browned on one side. Flip, apply ghee on top, and cook the other side, applying ghee again, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Serve hot: Remove the cooked paratha to a plate and serve immediately. This paratha is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with yogurt, white butter, or pickle.
Tips and Suggestions
- For a different, rustic flavor, you can use lightly melted jaggery (unrefined sugar) instead of sugar.
- For young children, you can add raisins or finely chopped almonds to the filling.
- This paratha tastes best when served hot, as the sugar hardens when it cools.
Chini paratha is more than just a recipe; it's a reminder of the times when, as children, we would ask our grandmothers for a sweet paratha after school. Now, as we manage our own kitchens, this taste transports us back to those cherished childhood memories. If you want to share this taste with your children or relive your own memories, don't miss making this paratha. Its aroma, taste, and simplicity will bring a smile to everyone's face.
