Pudina Paratha – Indian Layered Flatbread with Butter and Mint
Pudina Paratha is a fragrant Indian flatbread layered with creamy butter and crushed dried mint. This flaky, aromatic bread is perfect as a side for curries or enjoyed on its own. The combination of soft layers and fresh mint flavor makes it a favorite for any Indian meal.
🕒 Prep Time: 20 min
⏳ Dough Resting Time: 1-5 hours
🍳 Cook Time: 3 min per paratha
🍽️ Yield: 8 flatbreads
🥄 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 225 g all-purpose flour (type 55)
- 150 g whole wheat flour
- 220 ml warm water
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 50 g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Crushed dried mint leaves (to taste)
- Coarse sea salt (a pinch)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
👩🍳 Instructions
- 🥣 Make the Dough:
Combine the flours in a bowl and create a well in the center. Add salt and warm water gradually, mixing with your fingers until dough forms. Add oil and knead until smooth and elastic.
Knead by hand for 10+ minutes or use a bread machine for 13 minutes after initial hand kneading. Cover with a bowl and rest for 1 to 5 hours at room temperature.
- 🔪 Prepare Dough Balls:
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a ball and keep covered until ready to roll out.
- 🧈 Prepare Butter and Mint:
Beat butter until creamy and easy to spread.
- 🌿 Roll and Layer:
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a thin disc (~18-20 cm diameter).
Spread a thin layer of butter over the dough using the back of a spoon. Sprinkle lightly with flour and sea salt, then generously scatter crushed dried mint leaves on top.
- 🌀 Fold and Roll:
Fold the dough accordion-style over the mint layer, then roll it up like a snail shell with the mint layer facing outward.
Lightly flour the surface again, flatten the spiral with your hands, and roll out into a thin disc (~20 cm diameter).
- 🍳 Cook the Paratha:
Heat a cast iron or non-stick pan over high heat for 5 minutes. Lightly oil a paper towel and wipe the pan before cooking each paratha.
Cook each paratha for 1.5 minutes per side until no wet spots remain. Use tongs to transfer it to a gas flame and char lightly on both sides for about 5 seconds each, creating toasted spots and enhancing flavor.
- 🧈 Serve and Store:
Stack cooked parathas on a plate and cover with foil. Immediately brush each with a cube of butter.
Serve warm. For storage, fold or roll parathas and wrap in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Excellent alongside potato, lentil, or lamb curry.
💡 Tips
- Ensure the pan is very hot before cooking for a crispy exterior.
- Folding and rolling creates flaky layers and distributes mint evenly.
- Toasting on the flame adds authentic tandoori flavor.
- Adjust the amount of mint to your preference for freshness and aroma.
🎉 Perfect For
- Indian meals with rich curries
- Aromatic side bread for spicy dishes
- Enjoying as a snack or breakfast flatbread
📝 Final Thoughts
Pudina Paratha is a simple yet elegant Indian bread that combines buttery layers with refreshing mint. This recipe brings authentic flavor and texture, perfect for elevating any meal with its delicate flakiness and fragrant aroma.