Mastering the Art of Making Trinidad Roti

In Trinidad and Tobago’s culinary landscape, few dishes evoke the same level of nostalgia and appreciation as “Trinidad roti.”. There is a saying in T&T that is a testament to this fact, “I am not roti, I can’t make everyone happy”.

What is Trindad Roti?

A staple in the Trinidadian diet, roti is not just a food; it’s a symbol of culture, a vessel of tradition, and a celebration of flavors. Eaten with a wide variety of vegan, non vegan, seafood and vegetarian dishes, it is an obsession that we Trinbagonians are proud of.

How to pronounce ROTI?

Roti is pronounced Ro – tee or ro – tea, not ro-dee or ro-dey.

What are the historical and cultural significance of roti in Trinidad and Tobago?

In Trinidad and Tobago, roti holds deep historical and cultural significance. It originated from the culinary traditions of East Indian indentured laborers who came to the islands during the colonial period, after the abolition of slavery.

Roti is not just a food; it’s a symbol of cultural fusion, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Trinidad and Tobago’s identity. The process of making roti and the act of sharing it with others are integral to social gatherings, family meals, and festive occasions, representing the spirit of togetherness and unity.

Roti-making is often passed down through generations, preserving the heritage and traditions of Trinidadian families. As a result, the preparation and enjoyment of roti have become a cherished part of the country’s cultural fabric, serving as a reminder of the resilience and rich heritage of its people.

Traditions and customs related to the preparation and consumption of roti in Trinidad:

1. Traditional Roti-Making Techniques: Families often have their own unique techniques for making roti, which are passed down through generations. This includes methods for kneading the dough, rolling it out, and cooking it on a tawa or griddle.

2. Roti-Making Gatherings: Roti-making can be a communal activity, bringing together family members or friends to participate in the preparation process. This fosters a sense of togetherness and allows for the sharing of culinary knowledge and traditions.

3. Festive Occasions: Roti holds a special place in Trinidadian celebrations such as weddings, religious festivities including poojas, prayers and cultural events. It is often prepared in abundance to serve large gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and abundance.

4. Accompaniments and Pairings: There are specific customs around the pairings of roti with different dishes. For example, certain types of roti are traditionally served with specific curries or stews.

5. Symbolism in Roti Preparation: The act of making roti is often seen as an expression of love and care, especially when preparing it for others. It is a way of showing hospitality and nurturing relationships within the community.

6. Sharing and Generosity: Sharing roti with guests and visitors is customary as a gesture of goodwill and hospitality. Guests are often encouraged to eat heartily and take second helpings, emphasizing the spirit of generosity and abundance.

These traditions and customs underscore the cultural significance of roti in Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting its role in fostering unity, preserving heritage, and bringing people together through shared culinary experiences.

What are the various types of roti in Trinidad?

Today I will introduce you to the 8 types of roti that have made their way into the hearts and homes of Trinbagonians, which I hope will inspire you to get into the kitchen and try some of these.

1. Trinidad Roti: Paratha Roti or “Buss Up Shot”: The Flaky Wonder

One of the most iconic roti varieties, Paratha Roti, is known for its flaky, layered texture that resembles a “buss up” or burst-up shirt. This unique texture is achieved by rubbing the rolled-out dough with butter, ghee, or oil and skillfully folding and rolling the dough multiple times, then the ends are tucked in. After resting, the dough is rolled out and ‘slapped’ on a tawa. As it cooks on the tawa, pot or griddle, these layers puff up and are then separated with the help of a good beating using two dablas, giving it that distinctive appearance and a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Paratha Roti is a perfect accompaniment for rich curries and stews, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. See the full post for a list of accompaniments you can enjoy with this addicting roti.

2. Trinidad Roti: Sada Roti: The Simple Roti

Sada Roti, often called the “plain” or ‘simple’ roti, is anything but ordinary in the Trinidadian culinary scene. This roti is made with minimal ingredients – flour, baking powder, water, salt – and its simplicity is its strength.

The historic challenge has been ‘making de roti swell’. An ongoing challenge to date. Why does a simple roti cause all this bacchanal? Watch my detailed video to see some of the mistakes folks have made over the years which have led to these dilemmas. It is a known fact that a woman is ready to get married when ‘she can make her sada roti swell!” Are you ready?

Pairing Ideas for Trinidad Sada Roti:

The result is a soft, pliable, and chewy ‘bread’ that’s perfect for scooping up curries, stews, and traditional vegan and vegetarian dishes including baigan choka, fry aloo, aloo choka, eddoes choka, avocado choka, tomato choka, fry bodi, patchoi, pumpkin talkari, fry cabbage, sada eddoes, sada aloo, etc . While it can be enjoyed simply with butter or just butter cheese and pepper sauce, its unassuming nature allows it to shine alongside the most robust and flavorful Trinidadian dishes.

3. Trinidad Roti: Dhalpuri Roti- A Split Peas Filled Roti

Dhalpuri is one of the most popular and well-loved roti.  As the name suggests, this roti is a culinary celebration of dhal, the beloved split peas, and Caribbean seasonings.

The heart of Dhalpuri Roti is its sumptuous ground dhal mixture. This filling is meticulously seasoned to perfection, infusing each bite with flavor. A generous scooping of this seasoned ground dhal is filled into the dough, and the roti is skillfully rolled out, cooked on a tawa, and finished with a gentle brush of oil.

When the filling is skillfully stuffed, the Dhalpuri Roti can swell and expand to perfection. This transformation creates a unique combination of textures – the soft, tender, outer layer enveloping the hearty, ground dhal(split peas) filling. Each bite is a delightful revelation, a harmonious interplay of flavors and textures that lingers on the palate.

See Top 10 Vegan Recipes in Trinidad

Pairing Ideas for Trinidad Dhalpuri Roti:

Dhalpuri Roti, with its bold flavors and wholesome goodness, pairs exquisitely with a range of Trinidad’s iconic curried and stewed dishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Curried Chicken: The aromatic spices of curried chicken with lots of curry sauce dance in harmony with the flavors of Dhalpuri Roti, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Stewed or Curried Beef: The rich, savory notes of Caribbean-styled stewed or curried beef find their perfect match in the hearty filling of Dhalpuri Roti, offering a comforting and filling feast.

Curry Channa and Aloo: This classic Trinidadian combination of chickpeas and potatoes in a fragrant curry is a delightful accompaniment to Dhalpuri. See also this quick & tasty 20 min curry canned channa and this instant pot curry channa and aloo recipes.

Curry Aloo: The simplicity of curry aloo balances well with the complexity of dhalpuri. Curry aloo is a must with wrapped chicken or beef roti. It helps to create balance and increase the comfort level of a wrapped roti. See also Mummy’s curry aloo recipe.

Curry Goat: The bold and robust flavors of curry goat beautifully complement the  burst of flavors in Dhalpuri, offering a memorable culinary experience. See also this delicious curry goat and potato recipe.

Dhalpuri Roti is a culinary masterpiece that reflects the heart and soul of Trinidadian cuisine. It’s an invitation to savor the rich flavors and textures of the islands, where every meal is a journey into the depths of culinary artistry and history. Whether you indulge in its wholesome goodness on its own or alongside your favorite Trinidadian dishes, Dhalpuri promises a memorable experience.

4. Trinidad Roti: Dosti Roti-The Multilayered Roti

Dosti Roti, or “friendship roti,” is a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and sharing that is deeply ingrained in Trinidadian culture.

Dosti Roti, a cherished culinary creation, offers a delightful twist on the traditional thin, soft roti. While it’s traditionally known for its two delicate layers, in our family, we’ve taken the art of Dosti Roti to new heights with three layers that promise satisfaction in every bite.

The journey begins with the kneading of flour, which is then portioned into small “loyahs” or balls. One by one, these dough balls are pressed out into a disc and sandwiched together, where the magic lies in the layers formed using butter and a touch of dried flour. Once the layers are perfectly orchestrated, the roti is gently rolled out and skillfully cooked on a tawa. The roti is wrapped tightly, allowing it to continue softening.

Pairing Ideas:

While Dosti Roti may appear distinct and more elegant than its cousin, the Paratha, they share a common heritage and similar ingredients. Dosti Roti stands out with its soft and delicate texture, inviting you to savor it alongside a delightful array of Trinidadian dishes. Pair it with pumpkin, pumpkin and shrimp, curry aloo, fry or curry bodi, baigan choka, tomato choka, curried conch, curried cabbage, sautéed pak choy, sada eddoes, sada aloo, curry chicken, stewed chicken, and the list goes on. With its versatility, Dosti Roti beautifully complements the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Trinidad, making every meal a delightful experience.

5. Trinidad Roti: Aloo Roti-A Potato Lover’s Dream

Aloo Roti, known by various names such as aloo puri or aloo paratha, is a cherished gem in Trinidad’s culinary treasure trove. This delightful stuffed roti is not only beloved in the heart of the Caribbean but also appreciated around the world. It embodies simplicity and robust flavors, making it a cherished addition to any Trinidadian meal.

The heart of Aloo Roti lies in its savory and well-seasoned filling. The star of the show is a mixture of boiled and mashed potatoes, brought to life with a blend of garlic, hot pepper, bandhania (culantro), or cilantro, and scallion. This harmonious concoction infuses the roti with a burst of flavors that capture the essence of Trinidad’s culinary traditions.

Creating Aloo Roti is an artful process. The seasoned potato filling is gently tucked inside a dough, meticulously rolled out to ensure an even distribution of flavors. The roti is then expertly cooked on a traditional tawa, a frying pan, skillet, or griddle, until it achieves a glorious golden brown hue and swells to perfection. This culinary process is a labor of love, resulting in a roti that’s as visually enticing as it is delicious.

The result is nothing short of exhilarating. Aloo Roti, aloo puri, or aloo paratha can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. It’s a delightful standalone treat, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack. Many choose to pair it with tamarind or boiled mango chutney, creating a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors.

Pairing Ideas for Trinidad Aloo Roti:

For a heartier meal, Aloo Roti harmonizes beautifully with an array of curries or stews. Whether you savor it with tender stewed chicken, hearty peas dhal, or succulent curry chicken, curry conch or curry shrimp, this versatile treat elevates your dining experience to new heights.

Aloo Roti is a testament to the art of transforming simple ingredients into a delightful medley of flavors that continue to captivate palates, both near and far. Whether enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to a Trinidadian feast, Aloo Roti is a culinary masterpiece that brings people together and celebrates the joy of savoring exquisite flavors.

6. Trinidad Roti: Introducing Lentil Puri-A Savory Lentil Filled Roti

While you’ve likely savored the irresistible flavors of dhalpuri, the beloved split pea-stuffed roti, I’m here to unveil the latest star on the roti scene – Lentil Puri. Born out of a serendipitous kitchen experiment, this Lentil Roti or Lentil Flatbread has quickly become a new favorite in my culinary repertoire. The result was so surprisingly delicious that it has even won my heart over dhalpuri roti, and I can’t wait to share this delightful creation with you.

The star of Lentil Puri, the lentil filling, begins its journey by being tenderly boiled until it reaches the perfect balance of tenderness and firmness. Following this, the lentils are skillfully ground in a food processor and then well seasoned.  Among the key flavor contributors are the aromatic bandhania (also known as culantro, shado or chandon beni, or recao), along with garlic, a hint of hot pepper, and ground roasted cumin. If, by any chance, you’re unable to access bandhania, rest assured that scallion or cilantro makes for an excellent substitute in this recipe.

So, whether you’re a devoted fan of lentils or simply curious to explore new culinary delights, Lentil Puri beckons you to the kitchen. With a pinch of patience, a dash of skill, and the guidance provided in my video, you’re in for a delicious journey that promises to delight and inspire.

7. Trinidad Pepper Roti- Some like their roti hot & spicy!

Trinidad Pepper Roti, affectionately pronounced “Pep-Ah Ro-Tee,” is a relatively recent and exciting addition to the vibrant culinary landscape of Trinidad and Tobago. While its origins may date back only a few decades, its bold flavors and innovative approach have overtaken the local food scene.

My journey with Trinidad Pepper Roti began during a memorable visit to Diwali Nagar in Chaguanas, Trinidad, several years ago. It was here that I first had the pleasure of tasting this delectable creation. Little did I know that this encounter would inspire me to embark on a culinary adventure, both in the kitchen and behind the camera.

If you think one paratha is amazing, wait until you’ve experienced the symphony of flavors that Trinidad Pepper Roti delivers. At its core is a robust pepper filling, featuring an ensemble of carrots, hot peppers (which can be expertly roasted for added depth), bell peppers, pimento peppers, all seasoned with a medley of garlic and the aromatic allure of culantro, also known as bandhania or shado-chandon beni. This filling is lovingly sandwiched between two flaky layers of roti.

To add the perfect finishing touch, a generous portion of melty Trinidad cheese, often New Zealand Cheddar, is topped over the carrot-filled center. In some variations, the cheese is mixed into the filling, further enhancing the delightful, gooey embrace of flavors.

Customizing Your Heat: The Pepper Factor

While it’s affectionately named Pepper Roti, you have the power to tailor the heat level to your preference. For those who are sensitive to spice or just prefer a milder option, you can easily reduce or eliminate the pepper element, although it might take away a bit of the signature kick. Trinidadian cuisine is all about adaptability, ensuring that everyone can savor the flavors at their own pace.

In Trinidad Pepper Roti, we witness the beautiful convergence of tradition and innovation. It’s a testament to the ever-evolving culinary scene of Trinidad and Tobago, where bold flavors, creativity, and a love for good food come together to create delightful moments at the table. Whether you savor it as a standalone delight or pair it with your favorite dishes, Trinidad Pepper Roti will satisfy your taste buds.

8. Trinidad Roti: Pigeon Peas Puri-A Newcomer

The journey into the world of Trinidadian stuffed rotis continues with the delightful Pigeon Peas Puri, a creation that was lovingly crafted in response to your requests after sharing dhalpuri and lentil puri on social media. As with all stuffed rotis, Pigeon Peas Puri follows the same path of dedication, skill, and patience, ensuring that each bite is literally a party in your mouth.

A Flavorful Filling:

The heart of Pigeon Peas Puri lies in its flavorful filling, where fresh green pigeon peas take center stage. These peas are first boiled with precision, reaching the ideal balance of tenderness and firmness. Afterward, they’re carefully processed in a food processor and then skillfully seasoned with a combination of aromatic bandhania (also known as culantro, shado beni, or recao), garlic, a hint of hot pepper, and the warmth of ground roasted cumin.

Like its stuffed roti counterparts, Pigeon Peas Puri is a testament to the dedication and artistry that goes into crafting these delightful creations. The seasoned filling is tenderly nestled within the dough, lovingly rolled out, and skillfully cooked to perfection.

The beauty of Pigeon Peas Puri lies not only in its exquisite taste but also in its versatility. Whether enjoyed as a standalone delight or alongside your favorite curries and stews, it promises to satisfy every palate. Its wholesome nature makes it a filling and satisfying choice for any meal.

Trinidad’s Roti culture is a testament to its rich culinary heritage and ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary flavors. Whichever type of roti you choose, you’ll surely experience a burst of West Indian flavors that resonate with tradition, celebration, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

The next time you savor a piece of Trinidad roti, you’ll be enjoying a dish and a journey into the heart of Trinidad’s food culture, where the art of roti-making is a cherished tradition that continues to unite and delight families and communities alike.

I hope I have inspired you to attempt making some of these delicious rotis at home! Now tell me, which roti is your favorite and which one of these will you be willing to try making first?

Click here to check out my YT playlist ‘Mastering the Art of Making Trinidad Roti’. All your favorite roti tutorials in one place!