Canai bread, also known as Roti Canai, is a flaky, buttery flatbread that hails from Malaysia. It is often enjoyed with various dips and curries. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making delicious Canai bread at home.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon saltbutter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup ghee or clarified butter (for cooking)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add condensed milk and water gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rest the Dough:
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Coat each ball lightly with vegetable oil and place them in a container.
- Cover the container and let the dough rest for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to relax the gluten.
Shape the Canai Bread:
- On a well-oiled surface, flatten a dough ball with your palms.
- Stretch and thin the dough using your hands, flipping and spreading it until it's paper-thin. (Alternatively, use a rolling pin).
- Fold the edges inward to form a rectangular shape, then coil it into a spiral.
Cook the Bread:
- Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Flatten the coiled dough gently with your hands.
- Add a small amount of ghee to the skillet and cook the bread until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve:
- Serve the Canai bread hot with curry, dhal, or any preferred dip.
Tips for Perfect Canai Bread
- Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest overnight enhances its elasticity and makes it easier to stretch thin.
- Stretching Technique: Be gentle when stretching the dough to avoid tearing. Practice makes perfect!
- Cooking Heat: Use medium heat to ensure the bread cooks evenly and becomes crispy without burning.
Variations
- Sweet Canai: Add a filling of sugar and grated coconut before folding and coiling the dough for a sweet treat.
- Stuffed Canai: Incorporate fillings such as minced meat, cheese, or vegetables before shaping the bread.
- Flavored Canai: Mix herbs, spices, or mashed potatoes into the dough for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 180-220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
Canai bread is a versatile and delectable flatbread that pairs wonderfully with various dips and curries. With a bit of practice, you can master the art of making Canai bread at home. Experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your unique variations. Enjoy this delightful Malaysian delicacy as part of your culinary repertoire!
