My Thepla dough is sticky and hard to roll. How can I manage it?

Question

Is your Thepla dough too sticky and hard to roll? Get tips on how to manage this flavorful Gujarati flatbread dough.

Answer 1

A sticky Thepla dough usually indicates too much liquid. Gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes manageable and less sticky.

Detailed Explanation:

A sticky Thepla dough can be frustrating, but it's easily fixable. The stickiness is generally caused by an imbalance in the wet-to-dry ingredients ratio. Here's a step-by-step guide to remedy the situation:

1. Assess the Stickiness: Gently touch the dough. If it clings excessively to your fingers, it's too sticky.
2. Add Flour Gradually: Sprinkle about a tablespoon of flour (whole wheat flour is best) onto the dough.
3. Incorporate the Flour: Gently knead the flour into the dough. Avoid over-kneading at this stage, as it can develop the gluten too much and make the Theplas tough.
4. Check the Consistency: After kneading for a minute or two, check the dough's consistency again. It should be soft, pliable, and slightly tacky, but not sticky.
5. Repeat if Necessary: If the dough is still sticky, repeat steps 2-4 until you achieve the desired consistency. Be patient and add flour in small increments to avoid making the dough too dry.
6. Rest the Dough: Once the dough reaches the right consistency, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll.

If, after adding flour, the dough becomes too dry, you can add a teaspoon of oil or a tiny splash of water to rehydrate it. However, it's always better to err on the side of caution and add flour gradually.

Pro Tip:

When rolling Theplas, use a light dusting of dry flour on your rolling surface and rolling pin. This prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to roll out thin, even Theplas. Avoid using too much flour, as it can make the Theplas dry and crumbly.