phulka

Phulka, also known as phulkas, is a type of Indian flatbread made from whole-wheat flour. It is a soft, thin roti that puffs up when cooked, a characteristic that gives it its name from the Hindi verb phulna, meaning to bloom or puff. Phulkas are common in North Indian and Gujarati cuisines and are typically served hot with curries, legumes, or vegetables.

Preparation and cooking: The dough is prepared with whole-wheat flour, salt, and water, and sometimes a small amount of oil or ghee. Dough portions are rolled into round discs and cooked on a hot tawa (griddle) until the underside shows light brown spots. The bread is then flipped and cooked briefly on the other side before being placed directly on an open flame or high heat to puff up. Some cooks finish by brushing one side with ghee while it puffs. The result is a soft, airy bread with a thin crust.

Serving and notes: Phulkas are typically eaten immediately while warm and are commonly paired with dal, vegetables, or curries. Regional variations exist, with similar breads in Marathi and Gujarati kitchens; the name phulka is widely used across Hindi- and Gujarati-speaking communities. The texture and puffing can vary with flour quality, rolling thickness, and heat control; phulkas are generally considered healthier when made with minimal oil compared with fried breads.