Methi Thepla Recipe | Gujarati Fenugreek Flatbread for Healthy Breakfast
Learn how to make soft, flavorful Gujarati Methi Thepla at home. A wholesome Indian flatbread made with fresh fenugreek leaves, perfect for breakfast, tiffin, or travel.
Methi Thepla is a beloved Gujarati flatbread made with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), whole wheat flour, and a fragrant mix of Indian spices. This dish embodies the heart of Gujarati cuisine — wholesome, travel-friendly, and brimming with flavor.
Thepla is more than a bread; it’s a symbol of simplicity and nutrition, often served with curd, pickle, or a cup of chai. Whether you’re packing for a journey or looking for a fiber-rich breakfast, this methi thepla recipe is your perfect choice.
🥣 Ingredients for Methi Thepla Recipe
Main Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
1 cup fresh methi leaves, finely chopped
2 tbsp besan (gram flour)
2 tbsp curd (yogurt)
1 tsp ginger-green chili paste
½ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp red chili powder
½ tsp cumin powder
½ tsp coriander powder
Salt to taste
2 tbsp oil (for dough) + more for roasting
Water as required
🍞 Step-by-Step Preparation (How to Make Methi Thepla)
Step 1: Prepare Methi Leaves
Wash and finely chop fresh methi leaves.
Sprinkle a little salt and rest for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness.
Squeeze out excess water gently.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, add wheat flour, besan, methi leaves, yogurt, and all the dry spices.
Mix well and add 2 tbsp oil.
Gradually add water to form a soft, pliable dough.
Rest the dough for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: Roll the Theplas
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll into balls.
Dust with dry flour and roll each into a thin, round thepla (about 6–7 inches).
Step 4: Roast the Theplas
Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame.
Place the rolled thepla and cook one side until light spots appear.
Flip, apply a little oil or ghee, and roast both sides until golden and cooked evenly.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot Methi Thepla with:
Fresh curd or raita
Mango or lemon pickle
Masala chai for a comforting Gujarati breakfast combo
For travel, pack theplas with a layer of oil to keep them soft and fresh for up to 2 days.
🌿 Nutritional Benefits
Methi (fenugreek) is a powerhouse of fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
Rich in iron and folate: supports blood health
Low glycemic index: good for diabetics
Promotes digestion: thanks to methi’s natural compounds
Whole wheat + besan: provide balanced carbs and proteins
🧂 Tips to Make Soft Methi Thepla
Use fresh methi leaves for best aroma and color.
Add yogurt — it keeps the dough soft and mildly tangy.
Don’t skip besan, as it adds texture and flavor.
Cook on medium flame to ensure even roasting.
For long travel, apply ghee after cooking to retain moisture.
🥘 Variations of Thepla
1. Plain Thepla
Made without methi — simple yet flavorful for kids’ lunchboxes.
2. Methi Palak Thepla
Combines spinach and methi for added iron and fiber.
3. Masala Thepla
Extra chili, ajwain, and garlic give a spicy twist to the traditional version.
🧊 Storage & Shelf Life
At room temperature: up to 2 days (when brushed with ghee or oil)
Refrigerated: up to 4–5 days
Frozen: up to 2 weeks (wrap in foil or parchment, reheat on tawa before serving)
🍽️ Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Gujarati |
| Prep Time | 15 mins |
| Cook Time | 20 mins |
| Total Time | 35 mins |
| Servings | 8 Theplas |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Shelf Life | 2–5 days |
🧡 Cultural Insight
In Gujarat, thepla is more than a dish — it’s a comfort food for all ages. Women traditionally prepare stacks of theplas before long journeys or religious fasts. It’s even said that a Gujarati never travels without thepla and pickle — a true symbol of home wherever you go.
🔗 Internal Links
❓ FAQs About Methi Thepla Recipe
1. What is Methi Thepla made of?
Methi Thepla is made from whole wheat flour, besan, and chopped methi leaves with spices and yogurt for softness.
2. How do I keep thepla soft for travel?
Add curd and oil to the dough, cook on medium heat, and apply ghee after roasting.
3. Can I use dried methi instead of fresh?
Yes, but soak dried methi (kasuri methi) in warm water before using to soften it.
4. Is Methi Thepla healthy for diabetics?
Yes, it’s rich in fiber and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetic diets.
5. What’s the difference between Paratha and Thepla?
Paratha is usually layered or stuffed, while Thepla is spiced dough mixed with ingredients like methi or palak.
🏁 Conclusion
The Methi Thepla Recipe stands as a timeless Gujarati favorite — healthy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served at breakfast or packed for travel, it reflects the essence of Indian vegetarian cooking. Try it once, and it will become a staple in your kitchen too!
🧑🍳 Author Pack
Author: Bhimascook Team