Kenya Fun Facts - Chapati

What is Chapati?

Leila Salma our Kenya Director shares some fun facts about Chapati and how its made:

·       Chapati (Chapo) as we call it here in Kenya, is a type of unleavened flatbread originating from the Indian subcontinent, which later spread to East Africa. 

·      Chapati has been a favorite meal since i can remember, during my childhood eating chapati was a precious but  a rare occasion as cooking Chapati was expensive.

·      In so many households Chapati was cooked on special occasions , like Christmas, Easter, New years and when your parents had visitors. The sweet aroma will make the children from the neighborhood to come visit you while eyeing the kitchen.

·       Chapati  is prepared by mixing water and whole wheat flour, to form a soft dough that is flattened into thin, round shapes and grilled on a heated griddle. It has a nutty flavor and slightly chewy texture and can be served with lentils, veggies, or curries, which makes it a wholesome and adaptive dish.

Ingredients for Chapati

·      The primary ingredient in chapati is whole wheat flour, This provides chapati with a nutty flavor and a dense texture. 

·      Flour and water are mixed to form a soft dough, although sometimes salt is added to the dough. 

·      Some people also add oil or ghee to keep the chapati softer and more pliable.

How chapati is made:

·      Chapati is made by kneading (atta) whole wheat flour with water to a soft consistency where the dough does not fly or flail but remains malleable. 

·      The dough is broken into pieces, rolled out in thin circles, and cooked for a short time on a hot pan. It is always blown directly over an open flame to enhance its flavor and texture, giving a soft flatbread that is a bit scorched.

Texture and Flavor of Chapati

Whole wheat content gives the chapati a gritty, soft, and slightly chewable texture and has a slightly nutty and mild flavor, which is why it can go well with all types of savory items, such as vegetables, or curries. Chapati’s simplicity brings out the flavor of the food it’s served with.

Nutritious Benefits of Chapati

Dietary Fibre: Chapati offers you a great amount of dietary fibre to keep your digestive system healthy because it is made from whole wheat flour.

Important Minerals and Vitamins: Chapati is an excellent source of several important minerals and vitamins, including phosphorus and magnesium.

Low in Calories: Chapati is commonly low in calories and fat, depending on how it is prepared, especially if made without oil.