17 Best East African Chapati Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
If you've ever tasted East African cuisine, you've probably come across chapati - a delicious and versatile flatbread that can be eaten with almost any dish. But did you know that making the perfect chapati requires a few key ingredients and techniques? In this article, we'll share the best East African chapati recipe that will have you making mouth-watering chapatis in no time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Unsalted Butter, Milk, Water
Chapati is a popular East African flatbread that is loved for its soft and flaky texture. Made with just a few simple ingredients, chapati is a staple in many African households. It is typically served alongside stews, curries, and other savory dishes. The dough is rolled out thin, then cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown. It is best enjoyed fresh and warm, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
2of 40
Chapati (Indian Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Durum Wheat Flour, Kosher Salt, Clarified Butter
Chapati is a versatile flatbread that can be found in many different cultures, including East Africa and India. This variation of chapati is made with whole wheat flour and cooked on a hot griddle. It is often served alongside curries or used as a wrap for various fillings. The soft and chewy texture of this flatbread makes it a favorite among many.
3of 40
East African Chapati
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Salt, Ghee, Warm Water
East African chapati is a popular variation of this flatbread that is made with all-purpose flour and cooked in a mixture of oil and butter. The dough is rolled out thin and then folded into layers before being cooked on a hot griddle. This gives the chapati a flaky and crispy texture. It is perfect for dipping in stews and curries or eaten on its own.
4of 40
East African Fish Stew
Main Ingredients: Fish, Coconut Water, Chopped Onion, Celery Stalks
This savory and flavorful stew is a staple in many East African countries. Made with a variety of spices, tomatoes, and tender chunks of fish, this stew is a perfect accompaniment to chapati. The fish is simmered in the flavorful broth until it is tender and flaky. It is then served over a bed of rice or with chapati on the side.
5of 40
Coconut Chicken with East African Flavors
Main Ingredients: Oil, Onions, Large Garlic Cloves, Fresh Ginger, Ground
This dish combines the flavors of East Africa with the creaminess of coconut milk. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked in a rich and flavorful coconut sauce. This dish is often served over rice or with chapati on the side. The combination of spices and coconut make this dish a standout among other chicken recipes.
Pilau is a rice dish that is commonly found in East Africa. It is made with fragrant spices, vegetables, and tender chunks of meat. The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth until it is soft and fluffy. This dish is often served with chapati on the side to soak up all of the delicious flavors.
7of 40
East African Kuku Paka
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Turmeric, Lemon Juice
Kuku Paka, also known as coconut chicken curry, is a popular dish in East Africa. Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in a creamy and flavorful coconut sauce. This dish is packed with spices and is often served over rice or with chapati on the side. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is loved by many.
8of 40
East African Sweet Pea Soup
Main Ingredients: Chopped Onion, Safflower Oil, Minced Garlic, Ginger
This vibrant and flavorful soup is a staple in many East African households. Made with sweet peas, onions, and a variety of spices, this soup is both nutritious and delicious. It is often served with chapati on the side for dipping and soaking up all of the delicious flavors.
Pilau rice is a staple in many East African countries. It is made with long-grain rice, fragrant spices, and tender chunks of meat. The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth until it is soft and fluffy. It is often served with chapati on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
This dish is a favorite among many in East Africa. Tender chicken pieces are braised in a rich and flavorful sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. The sauce is made with a variety of spices and is perfect for dipping chapati in. It is a comforting and hearty dish that is sure to be a hit.
11of 40
East African Bean Soup
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Water, Baking Soda, White Onions
This hearty and nutritious soup is a staple in many East African households. Made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. It is often served with chapati on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
12of 40
East African Mango & Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Red Onion, Salt, Garlic Clove, Peanut
This refreshing and flavorful salad is a perfect side dish or light meal. Made with fresh mango, cucumber, and a variety of spices, this salad is bursting with flavor. It is often served with chapati on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
13of 40
East African Keema Chapatis
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Red Onion, Chopped Cilantro, Cumin
Keema chapatis are a variation of chapati that is filled with a flavorful ground meat mixture. The dough is rolled out thin, then filled with the meat mixture before being folded and cooked on a hot griddle. These chapatis are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
14of 40
African Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Flour, Milk, Sugar, Eggs, Melted Butter, Vanilla
African pancakes are a popular breakfast dish in many African countries. These pancakes are made with a mixture of flour, milk, and eggs and are cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown. They are often served with a variety of toppings, such as honey or fruit, and can also be enjoyed with a side of chapati.
15of 40
African Chicken Stew
Main Ingredients: Oil, Chicken, Roma Tomatoes, Onion, Minced Garlic
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple in many African households. Made with tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and a blend of spices, this stew is perfect for dipping chapati in. It is a satisfying and comforting meal that is loved by many.
16of 40
African Fufu
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Olive Oil
Fufu is a staple food in many African countries. It is made with cassava, yams, or other starchy vegetables that are cooked and then mashed into a dough-like consistency. It is often served with a variety of stews and curries, making it a perfect pairing with chapati.
17of 40
African Sharwama
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Lemon Juice, Garlic
Sharwama is a popular street food in many African countries. It is a wrap filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces. The wrap is then grilled on a hot griddle, giving it a crispy and flavorful exterior. It is often served with a side of chapati for a complete and satisfying meal.
18of 40
Roti, Chapati (Flat Indian Bread)
Main Ingredients: Whole Wheat Flour, Salt, Water, Ghee
Roti, also known as chapati, is a staple food in many Indian households. It is made with whole wheat flour and cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown. It is often served with a variety of curries and stews, making it a perfect accompaniment for any meal.
19of 40
Nigerian Beef Stew (African Stew)
Main Ingredients: Red Bell Peppers, Chopped Tomatoes, Medium Onion
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple in many Nigerian households. Made with tender pieces of beef, vegetables, and a blend of spices, this stew is perfect for dipping chapati in. It is a satisfying and comforting meal that is loved by many.
20of 40
West African chicken mafé (chicken stew in peanut...
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Boneless Skinless
This West African dish is a flavorful and comforting chicken stew that is made with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. The chicken is simmered in the flavorful sauce until it is tender and then served with chapati on the side. The combination of flavors in this dish is sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
21of 40
Chapati
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Unsalted Butter, Milk, Water
Chapati is a staple Indian flatbread that is often served with a variety of dishes. It is made from whole wheat flour and is typically cooked on a griddle. It is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed with curries, stews, or even on its own. Here are some unique ways to incorporate chapati into your next meal.
22of 40
Chapati (Indian Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Durum Wheat Flour, Kosher Salt, Clarified Butter
In India, chapati is commonly eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is a simple and nutritious option that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Try making a breakfast burrito by filling a chapati with scrambled eggs, veggies, and cheese. Or, serve it with a side of dal for a comforting and filling lunch option.
23of 40
East African Chapati
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Salt, Ghee, Warm Water
East African chapati is similar to Indian chapati, but with a few unique spices and ingredients. It is a popular street food in countries like Kenya and Tanzania. The dough is typically made with all-purpose flour, salt, water, and oil, and then rolled out and cooked on a griddle. Serve it with a side of curry or stew for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
24of 40
East African Fish Stew
Main Ingredients: Fish, Coconut Water, Chopped Onion, Celery Stalks
Fish stews are a popular dish in East African cuisine. They are often made with a variety of spices and herbs, giving them a rich and complex flavor. Try making a fish stew with tilapia, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Serve it with a side of chapati to soak up all the delicious sauce.
25of 40
Coconut Chicken with East African Flavors
Main Ingredients: Oil, Onions, Large Garlic Cloves, Fresh Ginger, Ground
This dish combines the flavors of East Africa with a creamy coconut sauce. It is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and then simmered in a coconut milk sauce. Serve it with a side of pilau rice and chapati for a complete meal.
Pilau is a fragrant rice dish that is commonly eaten in East Africa. It is often served at special occasions and celebrations. The rice is cooked with a variety of spices and vegetables, giving it a vibrant color and bold flavor. Try making pilau with chicken or beef and serve it with a side of chapati for a delicious and filling meal.
27of 40
East African Kuku Paka
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Turmeric, Lemon Juice
Kuku paka, or coconut chicken curry, is a popular dish in East Africa. It is a flavorful and creamy dish that is often served with chapati or rice. The chicken is cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce with a variety of spices and herbs. Try making it at home for a taste of East Africa.
28of 40
East African Sweet Pea Soup
Main Ingredients: Chopped Onion, Safflower Oil, Minced Garlic, Ginger
This unique soup is a popular dish in East Africa. It is made with sweet peas, coconut milk, and a variety of spices and herbs. The result is a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cold day. Serve it with a side of chapati for a complete and filling meal.
Pilau rice is a staple in East African cuisine. It is often served with stews, curries, or other meat dishes. The rice is cooked with a blend of spices, giving it a bold and fragrant flavor. Serve it with a side of chapati for a delicious and filling meal.
This dish is a popular way to prepare chicken in East Africa. The chicken is braised in a flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. The result is tender and juicy chicken with a delicious sauce that is perfect for soaking up with chapati.
31of 40
East African Bean Soup
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Water, Baking Soda, White Onions
This hearty soup is a popular dish in East Africa. It is made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices, making it a nutritious and filling meal. Serve it with a side of chapati for a comforting and satisfying meal.
32of 40
East African Mango & Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Red Onion, Salt, Garlic Clove, Peanut
This refreshing salad is a great way to incorporate fresh produce into your meal. The combination of sweet mango and crisp cucumber makes for a delicious and light side dish. Serve it with a side of chapati for a well-balanced and flavorful meal.
33of 40
East African Keema Chapatis
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Red Onion, Chopped Cilantro, Cumin
Keema chapatis are a popular street food in East Africa. They are made with minced meat and a variety of spices, wrapped in a chapati. The result is a flavorful and portable meal that is perfect for on-the-go eating.
34of 40
African Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Flour, Milk, Sugar, Eggs, Melted Butter, Vanilla
African pancakes, also known as "mandazi," are a popular breakfast option in East Africa. They are a sweet and fluffy treat that is often served with tea or coffee. Try making them at home and serve them with your favorite toppings, such as honey or jam.
35of 40
African Chicken Stew
Main Ingredients: Oil, Chicken, Roma Tomatoes, Onion, Minced Garlic
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple in African cuisine. It is made with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices and herbs. Serve it with a side of chapati for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
36of 40
African Fufu
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Olive Oil
Fufu is a starchy dish made from boiled and mashed plantains or cassava. It is commonly eaten in West Africa and is often served with stews or soups. Fufu is a staple in many African countries and is a delicious and filling addition to any meal.
37of 40
African Sharwama
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Lemon Juice, Garlic
Sharwama is a popular street food in many African countries. It is made with marinated meat, vegetables, and a variety of sauces, all wrapped in a flatbread or pita. It is a delicious and portable meal that is perfect for a quick and tasty lunch option.
38of 40
Roti, Chapati (Flat Indian Bread)
Main Ingredients: Whole Wheat Flour, Salt, Water, Ghee
Roti, also known as chapati, is a popular flatbread in Indian cuisine. It is made with whole wheat flour and is often served with curries or stews. It is a versatile bread that can also be enjoyed on its own, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
39of 40
Nigerian Beef Stew (African Stew)
Main Ingredients: Red Bell Peppers, Chopped Tomatoes, Medium Onion
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple in Nigerian cuisine. It is made with beef, tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of spices and herbs. Serve it with a side of fufu or chapati for a complete and delicious meal.
40of 40
West African chicken mafé (chicken stew in peanut...
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Boneless Skinless
This unique and flavorful stew is a popular dish in West Africa. It is made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy peanut sauce. The result is a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for a chilly night. Serve it with a side of fufu or chapati for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Ingredients You'll Need
1. All-Purpose Flour
The secret to a perfect chapati lies in using the right flour. All-purpose flour, also known as maida, is the preferred choice for making East African chapatis. It gives the dough a soft and elastic texture, resulting in fluffy and light chapatis.
2. Warm Water
Warm water is essential for activating the gluten in the flour and creating a smooth and pliable dough. Make sure the water is not too hot or cold, as it can affect the texture of the chapatis.
3. Salt
A pinch of salt adds flavor to the chapatis and helps in the fermentation process, making the dough rise and become more pliable.
4. Oil
Adding oil to the dough gives the chapatis a soft and flaky texture. It also prevents the dough from sticking to the rolling pin and makes it easier to roll out.
5. Ghee
Traditionally, ghee is used in East African chapati recipes instead of oil. It adds a rich and buttery flavor to the chapatis and makes them more aromatic.
The Process
1. Kneading the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and oil. Slowly add warm water and mix until a soft and pliable dough forms. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Rolling and Folding
Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and roll them out into thin circles. Brush the surface with ghee or oil and make four folds, overlapping each other to form a square. Roll out the dough again into a large circle.
3. Cooking the Chapatis
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and place the rolled out chapati on it. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, flipping it over until both sides are golden brown. Brush with ghee or oil while cooking for a richer flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Your East African chapatis are now ready to be served with your favorite dish. They can also be enjoyed on their own with some chutney or curry. Try this recipe for yourself and see how easy it is to make the perfect chapatis right at home.
Conclusion:
With this easy and authentic East African chapati recipe, you can now bring a taste of Africa to your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make some delicious and fluffy chapatis that will have everyone asking for more. Don't forget to experiment with different fillings and flavors to add your own twist to this traditional recipe. Happy cooking!