Entree: India – Maharashtra – थालीपीठ ➤ Thālīpīṭh (A spiced, savory multigrain pancake made from roasted flour mix and vegetables, typical of Maharashtra)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 20 min

Additional 5 min

Total 40 min

Ingredients

- 2 cups (240 g) bhajani flour (roasted multigrain flour: a blend of roasted rice, chana dal, coriander seed, cumin and sesame) or store-bought bhajani
- 1 small onion, finely chopped, about 3 oz (85 g)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) fresh grated coconut (optional)
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)
- 1/2 cup (60 g) grated bottle gourd (optional, helps bind and keeps moist)
- 1 tsp (5 g) roasted cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) turmeric powder
- 1 tsp (5 g) red chili powder or to taste
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt or to taste
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) oil mixed into the dough
- 1/2–3/4 cup (120–180 ml) water, as needed to make a soft dough
- Additional oil or ghee for shallow frying, about 3–4 tbsp (45–60 ml)

Instructions

1. Mix dough: in a large bowl combine bhajani flour, chopped onion, grated coconut (if using), green chilies, cilantro, grated bottle gourd, roasted cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder and salt. Add 2 tbsp (30 ml) oil and begin adding water a little at a time, mixing to form a soft but firm dough that holds together—about 1/2 to 3/4 cup (120–180 ml) water depending on moisture.
2. Shape and cook: divide dough into 4 portions. To form a thalipeeth, oil a clean plastic sheet or parchment lightly, place a dough ball on it, flatten with fingers into a 6–7 inch (15–18 cm) disc about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Heat a heavy skillet or tawa over medium heat and add 1 tsp (5 ml) oil. Slide the flattened dough onto the skillet (on the oiled side) and add 1 tsp (5 ml) oil around the edges; cook 3–4 minutes until underside is browned and crisp. Flip carefully, add more oil or ghee and cook the other side 3–4 minutes until cooked through and golden. Repeat with remaining dough.
3. Serve: serve hot spread with butter or ghee, plain yogurt or a spicy chutney for an authentic Maharashtrian meal.