How to Make Roasted Litti

If you’re a fan of the traditional Bihari dish “Litti,” get ready to experience its rustic charm in a unique and delicious way – Roasted Litti! This version offers an authentic taste with a smoky twist as the stuffed wheat flour balls are roasted over an open flame or in an oven. The roasting process infuses the Litti with a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other variations. Join us as we explore the step-by-step process of making Roasted Litti and discover the joy of savoring this rustic delight.

Ingredients: For the Litti:

• 2 cups wheat flour
• 1 cup roasted gram flour (sattu)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Water (for kneading the dough)

For Roasting:

• Charcoal (if using the traditional method)
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or oil

For serving:

• Chokha (optional but highly recommended; recipe included in the “Tawa Litti” article above)

Instructions:

Step 1: Making the Litti Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, ghee, carom seeds, nigella seeds, and salt.
2. Gradually add water and knead the ingredients to form a firm and smooth dough.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside for 20-30 minutes to rest.

Step 2: Preparing the Stuffing

1. In a separate bowl, mix the roasted gram flour (sattu) with a pinch of salt and add some water to make a semi-dry stuffing mixture. It should hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Shaping the Litti

1. Take a portion of the dough and form small lemon-sized balls with your palms.
2. Flatten each ball and place a spoonful of the stuffing in the center.
3. Carefully seal the dough, ensuring the stuffing is enclosed entirely.

Step 4: Roasting the Litti Traditional Method:

1. If using the traditional method, light a piece of charcoal until it is red hot.
2. Create a small well in the center of a plate of Litti and place the hot charcoal in it.
3. Drizzle ghee or oil over the charcoal and immediately cover the plate with a larger bowl or lid.
4. Allow the smoke from the charcoal to infuse the Litti for about 5-7 minutes.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the stuffed Litti on a baking tray and roast them for about 15-20 minutes or until they develop a golden-brown color.

Step 5: Serving Roasted Litti

1. Once the Roasted Litti is ready, remove them from the oven or the traditional setup.
2. Serve them while they are still warm and infused with the smoky flavor.
3. For a traditional experience, pair the Roasted Litti with chokha, as explained in the “Tawa Litti” article above.