The humble Roti

According Wikipedia: Roti is generally an Indian bread, made from stoneground wholemeal flour, traditionally known as atta flour, that originated and is consumed in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Roti also means bread in Malay. It is a famous local dish with many variation. Typically found in Malay / Indian restaurants and cafes which locals call “Mamak”. The ingredients for making this doughy goodness are simple – fat (ghee), water and flour. Not the healthiest but don’t knock it until you try it.

The humble roti – nothing but fat, flour and water

I grew up enjoying Roti in my Malaysian home town. Its wide variety means you can have it for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A few of my favourites are Roti Telur (roti with egg), Roti Planta (Roti with butter and sugar), Roti pisang (roti with banana, like a banana pancake) and the meaty version called “Murtabak” (minced lamb wrapped in roti).

Malaysian flag

Roti King
Euston, London 

I have been missing this dish since my relocation to London. That is until I found roti haven in the form of Roti King. Hidden in the basement of Euston Chinese, Roti King serves authentic roti, with the classic variety, at reasonable price.

There was a bit of a queue in this popular tiny little venue. We waited patiently to get tucked in to a little table for 2. No time wasted, we ordered a Roti Canai (the original, plain version) and for me, the Roti Telur, both served with Malaysian Chicken Curry. My friend topped it up with the Roti with a western – Roti cheese and spinach.

Roti with cheese and spinach

Roti telur with Malaysian chicken curry

And finally, for dessert, I ordered the Roti Kaya (Roti with sweet coconut jam). This is my favourite without a doubt. It has the Holy Trinity of salt, fat and sugar all in one – the soft, warm, buttery roti and the sweet, sticky coconut and palm sugar elixir makes a satisfying finish to an already very satisfying meal!

My overall rating: 8.5/10

Roti Kaya (coconut jam) – heavenly!