Reviving Leftover Roti: 10 Tasty Tiffin Transformations
In Indian households, leftover roti, often called basi roti, is a common sight. While it might seem mundane, this humble carbohydrate source holds immense potential to be reinvented into exciting and delicious meals for the next day's tiffin. With just a few basic ingredients like eggs, vegetables, spices, and oil, you can turn these leftovers into tempting treats that are both nutritious and satisfying. Here are ten creative ways to pack basi roti for school or office tiffin, ensuring no roti goes to waste.
1. Masala Roti Rolls
Spread green chutney on a roti, add sautéed vegetables or leftover sabzi, roll it tightly, and toast on a griller with a touch of butter or oil. This simple yet flavorful roll is perfect for a quick and tasty tiffin option.
2. Roti Upma
Cut rotis into thin strips and toss them in a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, onions, and peanuts. This South Indian-inspired dish stays soft and aromatic until lunchtime. Serve it with coconut chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Cheesy Roti Quesadilla
Layer grated cheese and your choice of vegetables between two rotis, toast lightly, and cut into triangles. This exotic twist on leftover roti pairs wonderfully with mayonnaise and mustard sauce for a delightful tiffin treat.
4. Roti Noodles
Slice rotis into noodle-like strips using a sharp knife or noodle cutter. Blanch them in salted water, then cool in iced water. Prepare a tempering with oil, capsicum, onion, carrot, and beans, add soy sauce, vinegar, and chili sauce, and gently toss with the roti noodles. Top with spring onions for a savory meal.
5. Roti Chivda (Dry Snack Mix)
Chop roti into small pieces and roast in a tempering of peanuts, curry leaves, and mild spices or podi masala. Pack this crunchy snack in an airtight jar for a tea-time tiffin option that's easy to munch on.
6. Egg or Paneer Roti Wrap
Spread mayonnaise or hung curd on a reheated roti, add scrambled egg or spiced paneer, roll it up, and wrap in foil. This protein-packed wrap is ideal for a hearty and nutritious lunch.
7. Sweet Roti Laddoo
For those with a sweet tooth, crush rotis and mix with jaggery powder and ghee. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, then shape into laddoos while the mixture is hot. This no-mess sweet treat is perfect for school tiffin.
8. Roti Frankie
Apply schezwan or mint chutney on a reheated roti, add a cabbage-onion mix, fried paneer or chicken chunks, sprinkle chaat masala and ketchup, and roll like a street-style frankie. This classic dish brings a burst of flavors to your tiffin.
9. Roti Pizza Bites
Cut rotis into small circles or triangles, top with pizza sauce, vegetables, and cheese, then bake, toast, or air fry until the cheese melts. Pack these indulgent bites in foil for a fun and delicious lunch.
10. Ghee-Sugar Classic Roll
Reheat a roti on a tawa, apply ghee, and sprinkle jaggery or powdered sugar. Let it caramelize, then roll it up. Pack in foil for a simple and nostalgic treat that kids especially love.
These innovative ideas not only reduce food waste but also add variety to your daily tiffin. By repurposing leftover roti, you can create meals that are both economical and delightful, making lunchtime something to look forward to.
