What is Roti Called in English?

Roti is commonly referred to as “flatbread” in English. However, this translation doesn’t capture the full cultural and culinary significance of roti. It is a staple in South Asian cuisine, especially in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

The word “roti” itself is often used directly in English, especially in culinary and cultural contexts, much like tortilla in Mexican cuisine or baguette in French cuisine.

Different Types of Indian Breads and Their English Names

Local Name	Common English Name	Description
Roti	Flatbread	Unleavened bread, made with whole wheat flour, cooked on a flat griddle (tava).
Chapati	Whole Wheat Flatbread	A type of roti, thinner and soft, often used interchangeably with roti.
Naan	Leavened Flatbread	Made with white flour, yeast or baking powder, and cooked in a tandoor (clay oven).
Paratha	Layered Flatbread	Fried or pan-cooked, often stuffed with vegetables or meat.
Phulka	Puff Roti / Soft Flatbread	A light, puffed-up version of chapati, cooked on open flame.
Bhakri	Coarse Flatbread	Made with various flours like jowar (sorghum) or bajra (pearl millet).
Poori	Deep-Fried Bread	A deep-fried, puffed version of roti made with unleavened dough.

Why Roti Doesn’t Have a Perfect English Equivalent

Although “flatbread” is the closest English term, roti is unique due to:

• Its ingredient simplicity (usually just whole wheat flour and water).
• Its cooking method (dry heat on a flat pan).
• Its cultural role as an everyday staple in many South Asian households.

So, while you can say roti = flatbread, it’s best to understand the context in which it’s made and eaten.

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