Indian Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Flatbread)
Methi Thepla is a soft, spiced Gujarati flatbread made from whole wheat flour, fresh fenugreek leaves, yogurt, and spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. It offers an earthy, slightly bitter taste balanced by aromatic spices.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Side Dishes
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 262 kcal
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup fresh methi fenugreek leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp gram flour besan
- 1 tbsp oil plus more for cooking
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp ajwain carom seeds
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 cup of finely chopped fresh methi leaves, and 2 tbsp of gram flour. Gram flour adds a nice texture, while methi leaves bring a distinct flavour to the theplas.
Add 1/4 cup yogurt to the dry ingredients. This keeps the theplas soft and adds a mild tanginess. Follow by adding 1 tsp each of turmeric, cumin seeds, and ajwain, which give the flatbread a subtle earthy aroma.
Season the dough with 1 tsp of red chili powder, 1 tsp of coriander powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything well before adding 1 tbsp of oil. The oil will help bind the dough and add a smooth texture.
Gradually add water to the mixture, kneading until you achieve a soft yet firm dough. The dough should not be sticky, so add water sparingly. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
After the dough has rested, divide it into equal portions (about 8-10 small balls). Roll each portion into a smooth ball and flatten it slightly between your palms.
Dust the rolling surface with some whole wheat flour. Take one dough ball and roll it out into a thin, round flatbread, around 6 inches in diameter. Use gentle, even pressure to prevent sticking or tearing.
Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium heat. Place the rolled out thepla on the hot tawa and cook for about 1-2 minutes until small bubbles appear. Flip the thepla and drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges, pressing down gently with a spatula.
Cook each side until golden brown spots form. Remove from the tawa and repeat for the remaining dough balls. Serve your Methi Thepla warm, paired with yogurt, pickle, or a side of curry.
Serving: 1Calories: 262kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 10gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 181mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2g