PCOS-Friendly Parotta (Indian Layered Flatbread)

PCOS-Friendly Parotta (Indian Layered Flatbread)
Prep: 25 min
Cook: 20 min
Servings: 2
Dinner

Nutrition per Serving

240 Calories
11g Protein
20g Carbs
14g Fat

Grocery List

  • Almond flour (blanched, finely ground)
  • Coconut flour
  • Psyllium husk powder
  • Baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • Sea salt
  • Eggs
  • Plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • Ghee or coconut oil
  • Apple cider vinegar

Glycemic Index Information

This PCOS-friendly parotta offers dramatically improved glycemic control compared to traditional wheat-based parotta. Traditional parotta made with all-purpose flour (maida) has a glycemic index of 70-80, causing rapid blood sugar spikes that worsen insulin resistance. Almond flour has a glycemic index near zero, and coconut flour has a low GI of 35-45. Combined with the protein from eggs and Greek yogurt and the healthy fats from ghee, this recipe creates a low-glycemic flatbread that produces minimal blood sugar elevation. With only 20 grams of net carbohydrates per serving compared to 50-60 grams in traditional parotta, this version significantly reduces insulin demand while providing 11 grams of protein to further stabilize blood sugar response. The high fiber content from psyllium husk, coconut flour, and almond flour slows digestion and supports sustained energy without crashes.

About Parotta Technique

Authentic parotta is known for its distinct flaky, layered texture created through a specific folding and coiling technique. While this low-carb version uses different flours than traditional parotta, the technique remains similar. The ghee between layers creates separation during cooking, producing the characteristic flakiness. The pleating and coiling may take practice, but even imperfectly shaped parottas taste delicious. Watch online videos of traditional parotta making to see the technique in action.

Storage and Reheating

Parotta is best enjoyed fresh and warm when the layers are most distinct and the texture is optimal. Store leftover parotta wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30-40 seconds. The texture will be slightly denser after storage but still flavorful. For longer storage, freeze cooked parotta with parchment paper between pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Ingredients

Ingredients (Makes 6 parottas, serves 2)

  • 1 cup / 100g almond flour (blanched, finely ground)
  • 0.5 cup / 60g coconut flour
  • 0.25 cup / 30g psyllium husk powder
  • 1 teaspoon / 5g baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 0.5 teaspoon / 3g sea salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 0.25 cup / 60ml plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 3 tablespoons / 45ml ghee or coconut oil, melted (plus extra for cooking)
  • 0.25 cup / 60ml warm water (more as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon / 5ml apple cider vinegar
  • Additional ghee for layering: 2-3 tablespoons / 30-45ml

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and sea salt until thoroughly combined with no lumps.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, Greek yogurt, 3 tablespoons melted ghee, warm water, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Form the dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula, then knead with your hands for 2-3 minutes until a soft, pliable dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky but hold together well. If too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time. If too wet, add almond flour.
  4. Rest the dough: Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the psyllium husk and coconut flour to fully absorb the moisture, making the dough easier to work with.
  5. Divide the dough: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions (about 2.5 ounces each). Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms.
  6. Roll out the first layer: Place one dough ball between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll into a thin circle about 6-7 inches (15-18cm) in diameter. The thinner you roll it, the more authentic the texture, but be careful not to tear it.
  7. Apply ghee for layers: Brush the rolled circle generously with melted ghee. This creates the signature flaky layers. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of almond flour over the ghee if desired.
  8. Create pleats: Starting from one edge, fold the circle into pleats like an accordion or fan, creating a long strip about 1 inch wide. This pleating technique creates the layers.
  9. Coil the strip: Take the pleated strip and coil it into a tight spiral, tucking the end underneath. Gently flatten with your palm. This is your prepared parotta.
  10. Roll the coiled dough: Place the coiled dough between parchment paper again and gently roll into a circle about 5-6 inches (12-15cm) in diameter. Roll carefully to maintain the layers without completely flattening them.
  11. Heat your pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with ghee.
  12. Cook the first side: Carefully transfer the parotta to the hot pan (remove parchment). Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown spots appear and the edges look set.
  13. Flip and cook: Flip the parotta and brush the top with a little ghee. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown spots appear on the second side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
  14. Create flaky texture: Once cooked, transfer to a plate. Using two spatulas or your hands (when cool enough), gently clap or scrunch the parotta between your palms to separate the layers and create the characteristic flaky texture.
  15. Keep warm and repeat: Wrap cooked parottas in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm while you cook the remaining ones. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Pro Tip: The key to flaky parotta is generous ghee application between layers and gentle handling when creating the pleats. Do not skip the resting time, as it makes the dough much easier to roll thin without tearing.

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