If you love parathas but are craving something different from the usual stuffed versions like aloo or gobi, then Tomato Paratha is your perfect answer! This savory flatbread is infused with tangy tomatoes, spices, and herbs that elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Once you try this tasty paratha, you won’t be able to resist asking for it again and again!
Here’s how you can make Tomato Paratha at home.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- Water (as needed, around 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (optional)
For the filling:
- 2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee for cooking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, carom seeds, and turmeric powder (if using).
- Add a tablespoon of oil or ghee and mix it into the flour.
- Gradually add water, little by little, and knead it into a soft, smooth dough. The dough should be pliable but not too sticky.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Tomato Filling:
- In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or ghee over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions (if using) and sauté them until they turn golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, green chili, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt.
- Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, forming a thick paste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and set aside to cool.
3. Roll the Parathas:
- Divide the rested dough into equal-sized balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Roll each ball into a small disc using a rolling pin.
- Place a spoonful of the prepared tomato mixture in the center of the rolled dough.
- Fold the edges over the filling to seal it inside, and then gently roll it out into a flat disc, ensuring the filling doesn’t spill out.
- Dust with a little flour to avoid sticking while rolling.
4. Cook the Tomato Parathas:
- Heat a tawa or flat pan over medium heat.
- Place the rolled paratha on the tawa and cook for about a minute, until bubbles start to form.
- Flip it over and cook for another minute on the other side.
- Brush the paratha with a little ghee or oil and flip again. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Flip a few more times, adding oil or ghee each time, until the paratha is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
- Serve the hot Tomato Paratha with raita, pickle, or a side of curd. You can also enjoy it on its own, as it’s full of flavor and doesn’t need any accompaniment.
Tips:
- Adjust spice levels: You can customize the spice levels by adding or reducing the amount of green chili and red chili powder in the filling.
- Extra flavor: For a richer taste, you can add a pinch of garam masala to the filling mixture.
- Stuffing variations: You can also add a little mashed potato or paneer to the tomato filling for extra texture.
Why Tomato Paratha?
Tomato Paratha is a delightful departure from the more common potato or paneer-stuffed parathas. The tanginess of tomatoes combined with aromatic spices creates a savory, satisfying meal. The burst of flavors in each bite will make your taste buds dance, and you’ll find yourself craving this unique paratha again and again.
Give this Tomato Paratha recipe a try for a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please your whole family, and you’ll love how the tomato filling infuses the paratha with so much taste and texture.
