🇮🇳 Indian Cuisine · Street Food

Kathi Roll

Prep

20 mins

Cook

20 mins

Serves

2

Difficulty

Medium

A Kolkata street classic of flaky paratha wrapped around marinated chicken or paneer with onion and chutney.

Ingredients

  • 600g basmati rice
  • 400g flattened rice (poha)
  • 2 tbsp crushed green cardamom pods
  • a pinch of dried fenugreek leaves
  • 3 tbsp ghee
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets, sliced
  • a handful of fresh curry leaves, chopped
  • a generous spoonful of tamarind paste
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 2 tsp ground turmeric

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the roti base and set it aside to rest while you get the filling ready.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, potatoes, crushed green cardamom pods, and ground coriander, mixing well so everything is evenly seasoned.

  3. 3

    Heat ghee in a skillet, wok, or on a griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Cook the roti until lightly golden on each side, then transfer to a warm plate.

  5. 5

    Fry, grill, or steam the chicken thighs mixture until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges, about 20 mins.

  6. 6

    Assemble by layering the roti with the filling, a spoonful of lemon wedges, and a scattering of mint.

  7. 7

    Add a final touch of roasted cashews for extra flavor and texture.

Tips

Keep the ghee hot but not smoking — a thermometer helps you nail the perfect frying or grilling temperature.

Double the lemon wedges so you have plenty for dipping — it tends to disappear fast.

Serve immediately for the best contrast between a crisp exterior and a warm, tender filling.