Chapati
Hawker • Singapore
About Chapati
Whole wheat flatbread — served with curry
How to Make Chapati (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chapati is a beloved flatbread found across many kopitiams and hawker centres in Singapore, reflecting the city’s rich multicultural heritage. Traditionally enjoyed by Singapore’s Indian community, chapati has become a popular choice among locals of all backgrounds, often served alongside vegetable curries and dhal for a complete meal. Its soft, earthy flavor and chewy texture make it a comforting staple, while its simplicity lends itself well to modern, health-conscious adaptations. In Singapore, chapati is more than just a meal – it’s a communal experience, whether you’re sharing a plate with friends at a bustling hawker stall or enjoying it at home with family. The dish’s fusion influences are evident in how it’s paired with local favourites like sambal or stir-fried vegetables, showcasing its versatility within Singaporean cuisine. Choosing chapati for dinner not only brings a taste of tradition to your table but also fits perfectly into a balanced, plant-based diet, making it a fantastic option for those seeking wholesome, vegan, or vegetarian meals in the heart of Singapore.
Ingredients(for 2 pieces of chapati per person, suitable for a Singaporean dinner portion)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (atta flour)
- 1/2 cup Water (room temperature)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1 tbsp Chopped coriander (daun ketumbar, optional for fusion twist) - optional
- 1 tbsp Ground flaxseed (optional, adds fibre) - optional
- 1 tsp Ghee or vegan margarine (optional, for brushing) - optional
- pinch Black pepper (optional, for taste) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Add ground flaxseed and chopped coriander if desired for extra fibre and flavor.
3 minutes
Use atta flour for the most authentic Singaporean chapati texture.
- 2
Slowly add water while mixing the flour with your hand or a spoon. Add olive oil and knead to form a soft, pliable dough.
5 minutes
Dough should not be sticky; add a little more flour or water as needed.
- 3
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps make the chapati softer.
10 minutes
Resting the dough relaxes the gluten, resulting in softer chapati.
- 4
Divide the dough into 4 equal balls. Dust each ball lightly with flour and roll out into thin, round discs (about 15cm diameter).
5 minutes
Use minimal flour for dusting to avoid dry chapati.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This chapati recipe is a heart-healthy, low-calorie option suitable for balanced diets. By using whole wheat flour and minimal oil, it supports weight management, stable blood sugar, and long-lasting satiety. Its plant-based ingredients fit vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, and the addition of fibre and micronutrients makes it a smart choice for anyone seeking wholesome Singaporean cuisine.
Chapati is rich in complex carbohydrates from whole wheat, providing sustained energy and dietary fibre for digestive health. It’s low in fat, cholesterol-free, and contains plant-based protein, making it an excellent base for vegan and vegetarian diets. Adding optional flaxseed boosts omega-3 fatty acids, while coriander offers vitamins A, C, and K. Chapati is also a good source of B-vitamins and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
Pro Tips
- 💡Knead the dough well until it feels smooth and elastic for the softest chapati.
- 💡Cook chapati on high heat for quick puffing and prevent dryness.
- 💡Keep cooked chapati stacked and covered to maintain warmth and moisture.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover chapati in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on a skillet or microwave with a damp paper towel to restore softness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 240.0 kcal |
| Protein | 7.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
