Roti Canai

The Dough

250g plain flour

150ml warm water

2 teaspoons salt

100ml vegetable oil (plus extra for resting and shaping)

To Serve

Green chutney (or your favourite curry)

Jam (optional)

PREPARATION

1. Dissolve the salt in the warm water, then place the flour into a mixing bowl.

2. Gradually add the salted water while mixing, then pour in the vegetable oil and continue kneading until a very soft, smooth dough forms.

3. Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.

4. Coat each dough ball generously with oil, place into a bowl, cover and leave to rest for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best results.

5. Lightly oil your work surface and gently stretch one dough ball into a very thin sheet, allowing small tears if necessary.

6. Fold the dough into a long strip, then roll it into a spiral to create layers.

7. Flatten the spiral with your hands until it's roughly the size of a dinner plate.

COOKING

8. Heat a lightly oiled non-stick frying pan over a medium-low heat.

9. Fry the roti until the underside is golden and crisp, then flip and cook the second side until evenly browned.

10. Continue cooking until the centre is fully cooked and the layers have puffed slightly.

11. Remove from the pan and gently scrunch or clap the roti to separate the flaky layers.

12. Serve immediately with green chutney, curry or even a little jam.

School of Wok Tips

 A long resting time relaxes the gluten, making the dough much easier to stretch paper-thin.

 Keep the dough well coated with oil while resting to prevent it from drying out.

 Don't worry if small holes appear while stretching—the folding creates the flaky layers.

 Gently scrunching the cooked roti helps separate the layers and creates its signature flaky texture.

FAQs

Why does the dough need to rest for so long?

Resting relaxes the gluten, allowing the dough to stretch very thin without springing back.

Can I make the dough the day before?

Yes, an overnight rest actually improves the texture and makes the dough easier to handle.

Can I freeze cooked roti?

Yes, allow them to cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in a dry frying pan until hot and crisp again.