Crispy Roti Canai

Flaky Malaysian-style roti canai with crisp edges and soft layers. Brilliant with curry-style kebabs, satay sauces, grilled meats or spicy vegetable fillings.

Crispy Roti Canai

Crispy Roti Canai

🔥 Medium Prep 35 mins | Cook 15 mins 🍽 Serves 6

Ingredients

  • 500g plain flour
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp caster sugar
  • 250ml coconut water or lukewarm water
  • 1 egg, optional for richness
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for resting and cooking
  • 40g melted butter or ghee

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 360
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 48g

Method

  1. Mix the flour, salt and sugar in a large bowl.
  2. Add the coconut water, egg if using, and 2 tbsp oil.
  3. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Divide into 6 balls and coat lightly with oil.
  5. Cover and rest for at least 2 hours.
  6. Stretch each dough ball as thinly as possible on an oiled surface.
  7. Brush with melted butter or ghee, then fold into a square or coil.
  8. Cook in a hot oiled pan for 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp, golden and flaky.

Notes

The resting time is what makes the dough easier to stretch. Don’t rush it. Roti canai is excellent with kebab fillings that have sauce, because the flaky bread soaks everything up beautifully.