National Dish Mauritius: Roti (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Roti, the beloved flatbread of Mauritius! Soft, airy and made from just a handful of storecupboard staples, it is the perfect partner for the island’s fragrant curries. Whether you fold it around a spicy filling or tear off pieces to scoop up a sauce, this simple bread brings the taste of Mauritius straight to your kitchen — and it is far easier to make than you might think.
About Roti
Roti is a traditional Mauritian flatbread found in kitchens all over the island. Its soft, airy texture has made it a favourite companion to countless dishes, above all the spicy curries for which Mauritius is famous — from Cari Poulet to Dhal Curry. Making roti is straightforward and calls for only a few ingredients that most households already have to hand. This flatbread is not only delicious but wonderfully versatile too, pairing happily with all manner of fillings, whether vegetables, meat or pulses.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon oil (e.g. coconut oil or olive oil)
- Warm water (as needed)
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for roti, pay attention to the quality of the flour. It is worth choosing wholemeal flour or a dedicated roti flour to improve both the flavour and the nutritional value. Buy fresh ingredients where you can; the oil and any spices you use can noticeably influence the final taste. Consider reaching for organic spices too, to get the very best out of your dish.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making roti, make sure all the ingredients are laid out and ready. This keeps the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Measure the flour and salt carefully and tip them into a large bowl. It also helps to have all your kitchen equipment within reach — a rolling pin, a frying pan and a small bowl for the water.
Step-by-step instructions
- Mix the flour and salt thoroughly in a bowl.
- Add the oil and work it in briefly until the mixture turns crumbly.
- Gradually add warm water until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough well until it is elastic and supple, adding a little more water if needed.
- Shape the dough into small balls and let them rest for about 30 minutes.
- Flatten the balls and roll them out thinly with a rolling pin.
- Heat a frying pan until hot and cook the roti without any oil until bubbles appear.
- Flip the roti and cook the other side for a few seconds until lightly golden.
- Repeat until all the roti are cooked.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
If you need a gluten-free alternative, you can use rice flour or almond flour to make roti. These flours behave differently, so you may need to adjust the amounts of water and oil. There is no lactose in this recipe, which means roti is already suitable for anyone with a lactose intolerance. Just remember to choose lactose-free ingredients for any filling as well.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Roti is naturally vegan, provided you use plant-based oils. The fillings can be adapted however you like, using mixed vegetables, pulses or tofu. For an extra hit of protein, add quinoa or lentils to your fillings — a trick that also works beautifully alongside a Pumpkin Curry. The result is a nourishing, satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.
More tips and tricks
To make the perfect roti, it is essential that the pan is properly hot before the flatbread goes in. If the temperature is too low, the roti will not puff up as it should. Never press down on the roti while it cooks either, as this spoils the airy texture. If you are putting together tapas or snacks, roti can also be cut into small pieces for sharing.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Roti adapts beautifully to personal preferences. You can knead various spices into the dough to make the bread even more aromatic — cumin or coriander, for instance. Beyond that, experiment with different fillings, such as potatoes or spinach. Be creative and find out what you like best!
Ingredient substitutions
If you would rather not use plain flour, oat flour or coconut flour are excellent alternatives that bring their own character to the bread. Instead of oil, you can use vegan margarine for a richer texture. For a healthier twist, work some linseed flour or chia seeds into the dough. These alternatives offer not just flavour but genuine health benefits too.
Drink pairing ideas
A variety of drinks pairs wonderfully with roti. A cool mango Lassi or a fresh mint tea balances the warmth of the spices beautifully. If you fancy something alcoholic, a light white wine or a fruity cocktail is a good match. For an alcohol-free option, a refreshing glass of lemon water ties everything together nicely.
Serving and presentation ideas
Roti can be served in creative ways to whet the appetite. Wrap the flatbread in fresh lettuce leaves and serve it with a selection of dips, such as chutneys or a yoghurt sauce — a homemade Coconut Chutney is a lovely choice. A colourful spread of filled roti or roti tacos makes for an eye-catching presentation. And do not forget fresh herbs such as coriander or mint for the garnish!
A bit of history
Roti has its roots in Indian cooking and has become popular in many countries around the world over the centuries. It found a particularly firm footing in Mauritius, where cultures and traditions merge, and has become a cornerstone of Mauritian cuisine. Originally prepared as a simple, filling staple, the flatbread is nowadays cherished by food lovers too. The art of making roti is often passed down from generation to generation, which only deepens the cultural value of this dish.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Roti
In short, roti is an easy-to-make and wonderfully versatile flatbread that shines as a side dish or the centre of a meal. Its texture and gently nutty flavour harmonise beautifully with all kinds of fillings and sauces. Whether you serve it traditionally or with modern twists, roti is sure to delight every palate. Treat yourself to a culinary journey to Mauritius and savour the delicious flavours of the island!
