Missi Roti

Missi Roti Recipe - How to Make Soft & Flavorful Missi Roti at Home

Written by: Anamika Singh

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Published on

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Time to read 8 min

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Key Takeaways

  • Missi roti is a flavorful North Indian flatbread made with a mix of gram flour (besan) and whole wheat flour, giving it a unique earthy taste.
  • It’s naturally richer in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to regular wheat rotis.
  • You can customize it with variations like palak, methi, masala, or stuffed versions for added taste and nutrition.
  • It pairs well with dals, curries, chutneys, yogurt, and pickles, making it a versatile option for everyday meals.

Some recipes don’t just fill your stomach, they satisfy your soul. Missi roti is one of those flatbreads. It carries the warmth of besan, the comfort of whole wheat, and the aroma of spices that remind you that food can be both grounding and energizing. It’s the kind of roti you make when you want something simple yet packed with nutrition.

What is Missi Roti?

Missi roti is a traditional North Indian flatbread made by mixing whole wheat flour with gram flour (besan), spices, aromatics, and herbs. The word “missi” comes from “mishran,” meaning mixed, and perfectly captures what this roti is all about: a wholesome blend of flours that adds flavor, color, and nutrition.

It originated in regions like Punjab and Rajasthan and quickly became a household favorite because it stays soft for hours, is naturally rich in protein, and pairs well with comforting winter dishes.

What is Missi Roti Made Of?

Missi roti is a beautiful balance of whole wheat flour, gram flour (besan), spices, and herbs, making it more nutritious than regular rotis and naturally flavorful.

How to Make Missi Roti

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 1-2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • 1 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Water (as needed)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 1-2 tsp kasuri methi
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
  • Grated garlic or ginger

Essential Tools:

  • Rolling pin
  • Rolling board or clean countertop
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cast-iron or non-stick tawa
  • Flat spatula

How to Make Missi Roti: Step-by-Step Process

  1. Step 1: Mix the Flours

    • In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour and gram flour. Make sure the flours blend evenly.
    • This mixture forms the base of your roti, giving it its signature color and aroma.

  2. Step 2: Add Spices & Aromatics

    • Add ajwain, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
    • If you're using onions, cilantro, or kasuri methi, add them now for enhanced flavor and added texture.

  3. Step 3: Add Oil & Start Combining

    • Drizzle oil or melted ghee over the dry mixture. Rub it between your palms until it resembles coarse crumbs. This helps keep the roti soft.

  4. Step 4: Knead Into a Dough

    • Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, medium-soft dough.
    • The dough should not be too tight or too sticky. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

  5. Step 5: Divide & Roll

    • Divide the dough into equal-sized balls.
    • Dust lightly with flour and roll each ball into a round disc. Missi roti can be rolled slightly thicker than regular rotis to prevent cracking.

  6. Step 6: Cook on a Tawa

    • Heat a tawa on a medium flame. Place the rolled roti on it.
    • Flip when small bubbles appear. Cook both sides while pressing gently with a spatula.
    • Brush with ghee for the best flavor.

  7. Step 7: Serve Fresh

    • These rotis taste best when served hot and soft, right off the tawa.
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Tips to Make the Perfect Missi Roti

  1. Get the Base Right

    • Use the Right Flour Ratio: A mix of whole wheat flour and besan gives missi roti its signature texture. Too much besan makes it dry, so balance both flours for a soft, workable dough.
    • Add Water Gradually: Besan absorbs water quickly, so add water little by little. This helps you avoid a sticky dough and keeps the texture firm yet flexible.
    • Keep the Dough Slightly Firm: The dough for this roti should be firmer than regular atta dough, which prevents cracks while rolling and helps the rotis stay intact on the tawa.
    • Add Oil/Ghee: A little fat keeps the dough smooth and prevents the roti from drying out, especially since besan tends to become dense when cooked.
    • Rest the Dough: Resting the dough for at least 10 to 15 minutes helps the flours hydrate fully and makes rolling easier, resulting in softer, evenly cooked rotis.

  2. Boost the Flavor & Aroma

    • Don’t Skip Ajwain: Ajwain improves digestion and balances the heaviness of besan while adding a warm, earthy aroma to the roti.
    • Use Finely Chopped Herbs: Cilantro, chilies, or onions add moisture and flavor, but chop them finely to prevent tearing while rolling.
    • Add Powdered Spices: A pinch of turmeric, roasted cumin, or red chili powder enhances color and gives the roti a deeper, more wholesome flavor.

  3. Keep the Rolling Process Smooth

    • Roll the Roti Slightly Thicker: Thin rotis crack easily. So, aim for a medium thickness that cooks evenly while staying soft inside.
    • Dust Lightly With Dry Flour: Too much dry flour can make the roti tough, so use only a light dusting to help roll it without sticking.
    • Seal Cracks: If you see cracks forming while rolling, smooth them with your fingers and continue rolling to keep the shape intact.

  4. Ace the Perfect Heat & Cooking Technique

    • Use a Well-Heated Tawa: A medium-hot tawa helps the roti cook through without burning the outside, allowing besan to brown beautifully.
    • Cook Both Sides Evenly: Flip when small bubbles appear, then cook the second side until golden brown spots form. Press the edges gently to cook them well.

How to Store & Freeze Missi Roti

Short-Term Storage:

  • You can keep it in an airtight container for 1 to 2 days.
  • When reheating, do it on a warm tawa for 30-40 seconds.

Freezing Missi Roti:

  • Half-cook the rotis (about 50%) and let them cool completely.
  • Layer rotis with parchment paper. You can freeze them for 2-3 weeks.

To Reheat:

  • Thaw slightly and heat on medium flame until fully cooked and soft.

Variations of Missi Roti

  • Palak Missi Roti: Add finely chopped spinach or a small amount of spinach purée to the dough for a nutrient boost and a soft, earthy flavor. This variation is great if you want extra iron and fiber in your meal without changing the classic taste too much.
  • Methi Missi Roti: Mix in fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) to bring a gentle bitterness and aroma that pairs beautifully with the richness of besan. It also makes the roti easier to digest and adds a flavorful, winter-friendly touch.
  • Masala Missi Roti: This version of missi roti is higher in spice and packed with flavor! Start by adding ingredients like roasted cumin powder, amchur, or crushed coriander seeds.
  • Stuffed Missi Roti: Fill the dough with mashed paneer or seasoned potatoes to turn the roti into a complete, more filling meal.

What to Serve With Missi Roti

This roti pairs beautifully with dal fry or dal tadka, kadhi, yogurt or buttermilk, pickles, a dollop of ghee, and sabzi like aloo sabzi, baingan bharta, or methi aloo.

Health Benefits of Missi Roti

Higher Protein Than Regular Rotis

Besan is a good source of plant-based protein, making this a good option for vegans and vegetarians.

High in Fiber

Besan and whole wheat flour are both high in dietary fiber, which supports digestion, keeps you full for longer, and improves overall gut health.

Lower Glycemic Index

Missi roti digests more slowly than regular rotis. This helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, making it helpful for people seeking healthier carb choices.

Packed With Micronutrients

Gram flour is rich in iron, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins. These nutrients support energy, muscle function, and immunity.

Who Should Avoid?

  1. People with gluten intolerance.
  2. Those with very sensitive digestion should consume it in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is missi roti healthy?

Yes, compared to normal wheat rotis, missi rotis contain more protein and fiber due to the inclusion of besan. Eating missi roti can also help in improving digestion and aiding in weight management.

How many calories are in missi roti?

One missi roti contains around 150-180 calories, depending on thickness and added ghee or butter.

Is missi roti gluten-free?

Traditional missi roti contains wheat flour, so it’s not gluten-free. But you can make a gluten-free version by replacing wheat flour with millet flour, sorghum flour, or other gluten-free flours.

Is missi roti suitable for people with diabetes?

Missi roti has a low glycemic index, which causes a slow and gradual rise in blood sugar instead of a sudden spike, making it a good choice for diabetic patients. It also has higher fiber content and a better protein balance.

Can I add vegetables to missi roti?

Yes, you absolutely can. Think of any vegetable, be it onions, chilies, spinach, or even grated carrots. All of these make the rotis more flavorful.

Is missi roti better than regular roti?

Nutritionally, yes. It’s richer in protein and fiber, but it can feel heavy for some, which is why spices like ajwain improve digestion.

How long does missi roti stay fresh?

While missi roti tastes best when served hot, you can store it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days or freeze it for 2 to 3 weeks to preserve its quality.

Can I make missi roti without onion or garlic?

Yes, you can skip onions and garlic for a no-onion, no-garlic version perfect for fasting or religious days.

Can I eat missi roti on a diet?

Yes. Besan contains protein and B-vitamin content to support fast metabolism. Additionally, the high fiber content in it helps you stay full for longer, aiding weight management.

What are the benefits of eating missi roti?

Missi roti is rich in protein and fiber from its mix of gram flour and whole wheat flour, which supports digestion and keeps you full longer. Its lower glycemic index may also help with weight management, blood sugar control, and overall heart health.

What is Missi Roti?

Missi roti is a traditional North Indian flatbread made by mixing whole wheat flour with gram flour (besan), spices, aromatics, and herbs. The word “missi” comes from “mishran,” meaning mixed, and perfectly captures what this roti is all about: a wholesome blend of flours that adds flavor, color, and nutrition.

What is Missi Roti Made Of?

Missi roti is a beautiful balance of whole wheat flour, gram flour (besan), spices, and herbs, making it more nutritious than regular rotis and naturally flavorful.

Missi Roti Recipe Card

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Servings:

6 rotis

Cuisine:

North Indian

Course:

Lunch/Dinner

Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • Ajwain
  • Cumin
  • Turmeric
  • Chili powder
  • Salt
  • Oil or ghee
  • Water

Instructions

  1. Mix whole wheat flour and besan in a bowl.
  2. Add spices, salt, and optional herbs.
  3. Drizzle oil and rub it into the mixture.
  4. Add water gradually and knead a smooth dough.
  5. Divide into balls and roll into thick rotis.
  6. Cook on a medium flame with ghee until golden. Serve warm.

Nutrition Info

Calories:

150-180

Carbs:

18-20 g

Protein:

5-6 g

Fat:

4-5 g

Fiber:

3-4 g

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