From the Heart of a Novice Roti Maker...

Oil greased hands, a plate full of dough and some water, does not guarantee edible chapattis. Just like how, wearing Skate Boots – does not make you skate smooth.
For me, skating and Chapatti making have 1 thing in common. Both these activities - I have closely watched others perform – but my own experience in them, is bare minimum.
Skates, I tried at School. Today I am experimenting Chapattis. I have watched our Cook – back in Mumbai, make them- perfect round, soft – Phulkas. She also makes a thicker variety, called Parathas – Non Stuffed Ones. Some call it Rotis (bcoz they are non stuffed).

To me, it does not really matter what you name it. Because, I land up making a new variety. This combo variety has some properties of Phulkas – and some of Non Stuffed Paratha/ Roti.
They attempt to puff like Phulkas (I can see their efforts on the pan) - but are not successful. To make their puffing easier, if I put them on direct flame, they give up.
They have a fitness of a Roti - but fall short on size – Roti with a Stunted Growth - you may say.

Google is a handy tool- if you go to it, with uncomplicated Questions. I framed a simple question to clear my doubts. As expected, it was a cake walk for Google to explain- how to make Soft Phulkas, and Rotis.

In examinations, when we have extra time, we, tend to attempt extra Questions. Even Google has this habit. When it answers 1 query quickly – it will prompt more questions. It is Google’s way of showing- “I know more- in case you want to ask”. Depending on my time, I give this opportunity to the Search Engine. This time – I gave it. It educated me with tips on retaining Softness, Easy curries to go with it, et al.

Armed with some theoretical knowledge- I went back to Practical Lab to experiment Soft Rotis (Phulkas will require experience – I realized).
A fairly successful attempt. At least I came out of Intermediary Variety –that stood in between Phulkas and Non Stuffed Parathas. Now if my Rotis try to puff –I know when to check them. But when they puff really well – just like Phulkas, I let them happen. Thus, Phulkas – come as a by-product in Roti making process.

I know there is an error in my kneading method – which leads to this by product. Google, and people on Google say – experience will rectify this error for me. In case, you have a different opinion, please share!