Chapati is one of the most loved dishes in Kenya. Whether served with beef stew, beans, or vegetables, a soft, layered chapati always completes the meal. But many people struggle to get that perfect texture — not too hard, not too dry.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make soft, fluffy, and layered chapatis using simple ingredients and a few kitchen secrets.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour.

1 teaspoon salt.

1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

2 tablespoons cooking oil or margarine.

1½ cups warm water (adjust as needed).

Extra flour for dusting.

Oil for cooking.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Mix the Dough

In a clean bowl:

Add flour, salt, and sugar.

Mix well.

Add warm water gradually while mixing until the dough begins to form.

Knead for 10–15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Add 1 tablespoon oil or margarine and knead again.

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

2. Roll and Layer

After the dough has rested:

Divide it into equal portions (8–10 balls).

Roll each ball into a flat circle, apply a light coat of oil or margarine, and roll it up into a log.

Coil the log into a spiral and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This creates layers.

3. Cook the Chapatis

Roll each spiral into a medium-thick circle.

Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan until hot.

Place the rolled chapati on the pan.

Cook one side until it starts to puff and brown spots appear, then flip.

Apply a little oil on both sides as it cooks.

Repeat until all chapatis are cooked.

Tips for Soft Chapatis

Use warm water when making the dough — it helps make chapatis soft.

Resting the dough is key to softness and elasticity.

Don't skip the layering process — it's what gives chapati its signature flakiness.

Avoid overcooking, which makes them hard.

What to Serve With Chapati

Chapati is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with:

Beef or chicken stew.

Fried beans or dengu (green grams).

Sukuma wiki (kale).

Eggs, tea, or milk for breakfast.

Making soft, delicious chapatis doesn't require fancy ingredients—just the right method and some practice. Follow this guide, and you’ll soon be serving chapatis your family and guests will love.

Ready to impress in the kitchen? Try this recipe today and taste the difference.