Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the atta (whole wheat flour), a pinch of sugar, and salt. Gradually add water and start mixing to form a dough. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes using the base of your palm until it becomes smooth and medium soft. The dough should not be too hard or too sticky. Apply a few drops of oil over the surface of the dough, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

Step 2: Portion and Roll the Dough

After the dough has rested, knead it again for a minute. Roll the dough into a long, even log. Cut the log into small, equal-sized portions, about 30 grams each. Take each portion and roll it between your palms to form a smooth, crack-free ball. Dust your work surface with refined flour (maida). Take a dough ball, flatten it slightly, dip it in the dusting flour, and roll it out into a very thin, even circle.

Step 3: Cook the Phulka on the Tawa

Heat a tawa (flat pan) over a medium flame. Place the rolled phulka on the hot tawa. Cook the first side for just a few seconds until you see small bubbles forming on the surface. Flip the phulka and cook the second side for a little longer, until light brown spots appear. Use a cloth to gently press the edges to ensure it cooks evenly.

Step 4: Puff the Phulka on Direct Flame

Turn the flame of a separate, larger burner to high. Using tongs or a wire rack, pick up the phulka from the tawa and place it directly on the high flame, with the first-cooked side facing down. The phulka should puff up into a ball almost immediately. Flip it quickly to cook the other side for just a second, then remove it from the flame. Your soft phulka is ready. Repeat the process for the remaining dough balls.

• The dough consistency is key; it should be medium soft. Knead well for 5-10 minutes.

• Roll the phulkas as thin as possible for them to puff up perfectly.

• Use refined flour (maida) for dusting instead of whole wheat flour (atta) to prevent the phulkas from burning and tasting bitter.

• Use the bigger burner on your stove with a high flame to puff up the phulkas. This provides the necessary intense heat.

• Cook the first side on the tawa for only a few seconds, then cook the second side slightly longer before placing it on the direct flame to puff.