If your kids love pizza but you want to give them a healthier, homemade alternative, Pizza Paratha is the perfect solution! This delicious fusion combines the crispy, flaky goodness of paratha with the cheesy, savory flavors of pizza. It’s a fun, easy-to-make dish that will have your little ones (and adults!) asking for seconds. With a variety of toppings to choose from, you can create the perfect pizza paratha tailored to your family’s taste.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or ghee)
- Water (as required to knead the dough)
For the Pizza Filling:
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (grated)
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese (grated, optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet corn
- 1/4 cup olives (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by making the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, salt, and olive oil (or ghee). Slowly add water, a little at a time, and knead the mixture into a smooth, soft dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside for 20 minutes to rest. This ensures the dough becomes soft and easy to roll out.
2. Prepare the Pizza Filling:
While the dough is resting, get the filling ready. In a bowl, mix the grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Add finely chopped onion, bell pepper, sweet corn, olives (if using), and any other veggies or toppings your kids enjoy. Season the mixture with salt, oregano, and chili flakes (if desired). Finally, stir in the pizza sauce for that authentic pizza flavor.
3. Assemble the Pizza Paratha:
Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a small, thick disc. Take a spoonful of the pizza filling and place it in the center of the rolled dough. Be generous with the cheese and toppings! Carefully fold the edges of the dough to seal the filling inside, forming a ball again. Gently roll it out into a flat, round paratha. Be careful not to let the filling spill out.
4. Cook the Pizza Paratha:
Heat a tawa or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place the rolled paratha onto it. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on one side, until small bubbles appear. Flip the paratha over, brush the cooked side with a little olive oil, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Flip once more to ensure the paratha is crispy and golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pizza paratha is cooked to a crisp, remove it from the pan and cut it into wedges, just like pizza. Serve with a side of ketchup, extra pizza sauce, or even a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Pizza Paratha:
- Kids’ Favorite: It combines the flavors of pizza, which kids already love, with the wholesome goodness of a paratha, making it a fun and nutritious meal.
- Customizable: You can add any of your favorite pizza toppings, from pepperoni and mushrooms to spinach and paneer. The possibilities are endless!
- Quick and Easy: Unlike making traditional pizza dough, pizza paratha is quick to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.
- Healthier Option: By using whole wheat flour for the paratha and controlling the toppings, you can make a healthier version of pizza that’s still cheesy and delicious.
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Paratha:
- Stuffing the Paratha: Be careful not to overstuff the paratha, as the filling can spill out while rolling it. It’s better to use a moderate amount of filling.
- Cheese Choices: You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even paneer for a unique twist. The key is to use cheese that melts well.
- Add Veggies: Incorporating vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms will not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Add a bit of chili sauce or chili flakes in the filling to give it that extra kick of heat.
Conclusion:
Pizza Paratha is a fun, delicious, and creative way to get your kids to eat more wholesome meals while satisfying their love for pizza. This fusion dish is a surefire hit in every household, offering the cheesy goodness of pizza wrapped in the crispy goodness of paratha. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a family favorite. So, roll out the dough, get creative with the toppings, and enjoy a homemade pizza paratha that’s sure to impress!
