Why "Malbari Parotha" is the Star Beyond Kerala Restaurants
When we talk about Indian bread, the Malbari Parotha or Kerala Paratha is often the star of the conversation. Known for its flaky, crispy layers and buttery softness, this paratha is not just a staple in Kerala but has traveled far and wide to win hearts across the country. Surprisingly, what many of us enjoy as the Malbari Parotha in Kerala finds its close cousin in the Lachha Paratha served in North Indian restaurants. So, what makes this flaky delight such a universal favorite? Let's dive in!
1/26/20255 min read


Truth be told, no one knows the exact origins of the Malbari Parotha, but one thing is for sure—it’s a masterpiece perfected in Kerala kitchens. Some say it’s inspired by the Middle Eastern flatbreads brought by traders to the Malabar region. Others claim it’s a purely local invention. Whatever the case, the Kerala version, now widely known as the Malbari Parotha, is a thing of beauty! Its flakiness, buttery layers, and versatile pairing possibilities have made it a dish loved by people from all corners of the world.
വെള്ള പരോട്ടയുടെടും! (Velutha parottayutettum!)
Translation: "Let’s talk about the glorious parotta!"
How Malbari Parotha Took Over India
1. Kerala’s Gift to the Culinary World
In Kerala, the Malbari Parotha is not just another bread; it’s a cultural symbol. A good parotta is a key component of the state’s rich culinary heritage, often paired with luxurious, spicy curries like beef roast, chicken stew, or egg curry. The crisp, flaky layers soak up the rich flavors of these curries beautifully, creating an unforgettable taste experience. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, Malbari Parotha is a true Kerala favorite.
But why stop in Kerala? The Malbari Parotha soon traveled far beyond its home state, making its way to restaurants all over India. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the grand hotels in Delhi and the food courts in Bangalore, this flaky bread has become a staple in Indian kitchens. It has been embraced across the country, with chefs giving it their own personal twists, but the essence remains unchanged—the parotha is soft, flaky, and buttery, a perfect accompaniment to almost any dish.
2. The North Indian Avatar: Lachha Paratha
At first glance, the Lachha Paratha might seem like a twin of the Malbari Parotha. Both are flaky, layered, and buttery, but the preparation style varies. While the Malbari version is all about soft, stretched dough folded repeatedly for layers, the Lachha Paratha relies on rolling and twisting techniques to create similar flaky layers. Both variations have found a common fan base, and they are often the subject of friendly debates among food lovers—some swear by the softness of Malbari Parotha, while others are die-hard fans of the Lachha Paratha’s crunchy, slightly more rustic texture.
Interestingly, both types of parathas have conquered the entire Indian subcontinent and even beyond, making their way into the hearts and kitchens of people worldwide. From weddings to corporate events, the Malbari Parotha has become an indispensable part of the Indian bread family.
Why Malbari Parotha Deserves the Spotlight in Mumbai
Living in Mumbai and missing authentic Kerala food? Don’t worry! At Food Trail Catering Co., we specialize in recreating the authentic taste of Malbari Parotha right here in the heart of the city. Whether you're hosting a corporate lunch or a family gathering, our Malbari Parothas bring the perfect balance of tradition and taste to your plate. The careful preparation, the delicate layering, and the rich, buttery finish make our parotha a highlight of any meal.
Let’s face it—Mumbai, with its vibrant food scene, has a lot to offer in terms of food. However, when it comes to something as delightful and rich in texture as the Malbari Parotha, few can match the depth of flavor and authenticity that we bring. Our parothas are made using the finest ingredients, ensuring that each bite is a perfect combination of softness and crispiness.
Why We Love Malbari Parotha
Versatile Pairing: Malbari Parotha is incredibly versatile. You can pair it with dal makhani, paneer tikka masala, or even North Indian kebabs to create a harmonious combination that satisfies every craving. It also goes wonderfully with Kerala-style chicken curry, beef roast, and vegetable stew, making it an ideal choice for a truly unique meal.
Crowd Favorite: Whether it's a wedding, birthday party, or corporate event, the Malbari Parotha always steals the show. Its flaky texture and buttery flavor make it a crowd favorite that leaves everyone asking for more.
Perfect for Buffets: The Malbari Parotha’s flaky texture holds up well in serving lines, making it an excellent choice for buffets. It maintains its crispness while soaking up curries and gravies, ensuring that every bite is just as delightful as the first.
Making the Perfect Malbari Parotha: The Magic Recipe
Let’s talk about what goes into making this culinary icon—the Malbari Parotha.
Ingredients:
Maida (Refined Flour): The base of the parotha, providing the perfect consistency and texture.
Water: Used to knead the dough to the right consistency.
Salt: Essential for flavor balance.
Ghee or Vegetable Oil: Adds richness and helps in layering the parotha.
The Steps:
Knead to Perfection: To make the perfect Malbari Parotha, the dough must be soft, smooth, and pliable. This is the foundation of a good parotha.
Layering Technique: The dough is rolled thin, folded, and rolled again to create multiple layers. This is what gives the parotha its signature flakiness and softness. The key is in the delicate handling of the dough to ensure it doesn’t become too tough or too thin.
Cooking: The parotha is cooked on a hot tava (griddle) with generous amounts of ghee until it turns golden brown and develops a crispy, flaky texture. This is when the magic happens—the combination of the layers and the ghee creates a parotha that is both soft and slightly crunchy, the perfect companion for any curry.
ആറ്ട്ടിയുടെ പക്കാമ്! (Aartiyute pakkaam!)
Translation: "Let’s make it perfect!"
Why Malbari Parotha is a Must-Try for Your Next Event
Planning an event in Mumbai? Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or casual family dinner, don’t miss out on adding Malbari Parotha to your menu. Here’s why you should consider including it in your event catering:
Authenticity Matters: At Food Trail Catering Co., we pride ourselves on offering the most authentic Malbari Parotha in Mumbai. Our chefs have honed their skills over the years, ensuring that every parotha is made with love and care, just like it is in Kerala.
Flavors for All: Malbari Parotha is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries. Whether you're serving it with creamy dal makhani, spicy chicken curry, or a flavorful vegetable stew, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Corporate Events: As part of our corporate catering services in Mumbai, Malbari Parotha is always a hit. It’s a comforting, familiar food that resonates with people from all walks of life, making it an ideal choice for any corporate lunch or dinner.
Ready to Order? Here’s How!
At Food Trail Catering Co., we’re proud to be among the best caterers in Mumbai with a focus on quality and authenticity. Whether you’re searching for “caterers near me” or looking for corporate catering services in Mumbai, we’ve got your back. Call us today to add the magic of Malbari Parotha to your next event. We guarantee that it will be a hit, leaving your guests with unforgettable memories of a delicious meal.
നംമല്ളുടെ കരീയ്യും! (Nammalude kareeyyum!)
Translation: "Our specialty awaits!"