23 Iconic Breads Around the World

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Chapati / Roti - India

Unlike the famous Indian naan bread, chapati is an unleavened flatbread—also known as roti (and by a host of other names). It's another popular bread staple throughout the Indian subcontinent and in several other regions around the world. Made with a special type of finely ground whole-wheat flour known as atta, water, oil and salt (optional), the dough is typically made in a parat, which is a type of mixing utensil in the form of a large, flat plate. The chapati is then cooked on a tava (flat skillet) over an open flame. During the cooking process, they puff up and then deflate while cooling. If cooked in a tandoor, it's known as a tandoor roti.

Served with butter and ghee, it's used like naan with pretty much any type of dish, usually in place of rice. It's also a tasty option for stuffed or wrapped sandwiches.