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Whole-Wheat Spinach Parathas

These delightful Indian flatbreads are packed with flavor from fresh spinach and spices, making them perfect for any meal of the day.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Indian
Servings 8 pieces

Ingredients
  

For the filling

  • 1 cup chopped baby spinach, tightly packed
  • 1 small hot green chile, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ajwain seeds
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt divided
  • 1 teaspoon sunflower oil for cooking

For the dough

  • 2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour, divided
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or whole-wheat pastry flour
  • 0.66 cup water adjust as needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt remaining
  • 2 teaspoons sunflower oil for brushing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the ajwain seeds, ginger, and green chile; cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
  • Add the chopped spinach and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the pan. Cook for 3 minutes, until the moisture from the spinach has evaporated and the mixture is dry.
  • Stir in the amchoor powder and cumin, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
  • In a shallow dish, mix 2 cups of flour with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Add the cooked spinach mixture and mix together.
  • Gradually add water to form a soft dough, similar to pizza dough. Knead until smooth.
  • Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature.

Cooking

  • Once the dough has rested, knead it again briefly. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and shape them into balls.
  • Lightly dust your work surface with the remaining 1 tablespoon of flour. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
  • Preheat a cast iron griddle or flat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each paratha for about 1 minute on one side until it begins to bubble.
  • Flip the paratha, brushing with ¼ teaspoon of remaining oil. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula for even cooking until golden brown.
  • Remove the paratha from the skillet and keep warm while repeating the process with the remaining dough.

Notes

For perfect parathas, ensure the spinach mixture is well-cooked and dry before adding it to the dough. Avoid adding too much water initially; adjust as needed. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garam masala.
Keyword Healthy Flatbreads, Indian Cuisine, Spinach Parathas, Vegetarian Recipe, Whole-Wheat Parathas