How Many Calories Are in 2 Roti with Desi Ghee?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

Two medium-sized whole wheat rotis, each brushed with a teaspoon of desi ghee, typically contain between 250 and 290 calories. This calorie count can vary significantly based on the roti's size, flour type, and the amount of ghee used.

Quick Summary

The calorie content for 2 roti with desi ghee varies, generally falling in the 250–290 kcal range, depending on preparation. This article explains the factors influencing the final count and provides detailed nutritional information.

Key Points

Estimated Calorie Range: Two medium rotis with two teaspoons of desi ghee contain approximately 290-330 calories, but this is highly variable.
Ghee's Caloric Contribution: One teaspoon of desi ghee adds around 45 calories, while a tablespoon can add over 110 calories.
Roti Size Matters: The size and thickness of the roti directly influence its calorie count, with a medium one averaging 100-120 kcal.
Nutritional Benefits: Desi ghee provides fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and aids digestion, while whole wheat roti offers fiber and complex carbs.
Health-Conscious Tips: For calorie management, consider smaller rotis, measure ghee accurately, and pair them with high-fiber foods.
Flour Alternatives: Experiment with flours like bajra or multigrain to alter the nutritional profile and manage calorie intake.

Calorie Breakdown of Roti with Desi Ghee

To understand the total calorie count of two rotis with desi ghee, it's essential to analyze the components separately. A single medium-sized roti (approx. 40g) made from whole wheat flour contains roughly 100 to 120 calories. A single teaspoon (around 5g) of pure desi ghee adds approximately 45 calories. By simple addition, two medium rotis, each with a teaspoon of ghee, would be calculated as follows:

Two rotis: $2 imes (100-120 ext{ kcal}) = 200-240 ext{ kcal}$
Two teaspoons of ghee: $2 imes 45 ext{ kcal} = 90 ext{ kcal}$
Total calories: $290-330 ext{ kcal}$

However, it is common practice to apply just one teaspoon of ghee for two rotis, or sometimes even less. In such a scenario, the calorie count would be adjusted accordingly. For instance, applying only a single teaspoon of ghee to both rotis results in a lower total. The overall caloric impact, therefore, is highly dependent on preparation methods and portion control.

Factors Influencing the Calorie Count

Several variables can cause the final calorie count to deviate from the standard calculation. Being aware of these factors allows for more precise dietary tracking.

Size and Thickness of Roti

A small, thin roti can have as few as 70-80 calories, while a thicker, larger one could exceed 150 calories. The size and thickness directly correlate with the amount of flour used, which is the primary source of calories. Homemade rotis often vary in size, making a generalized calorie assumption less accurate.

Type of Flour Used

While most rotis are made from whole wheat (atta), different grains can be used, which alters the nutritional profile. For example, using multigrain flour can change the protein and fiber content, potentially affecting the calorie density. Other options like jowar (sorghum) or bajra (pearl millet) flour offer different calorie counts and nutritional benefits.

Amount of Ghee

The most significant variable is the amount of desi ghee added. While a teaspoon adds 45 calories, a full tablespoon adds 112 kcal. Overestimating the amount can drastically increase the total energy intake. It is important to measure fats accurately when tracking calories.

Comparison: Roti with Ghee vs. Alternatives

For those monitoring their calorie intake, comparing roti with ghee to other options can be helpful. Here is a simple comparison of popular flatbreads and variations.


Flatbread Type	Estimated Calories (Per Medium Serving)	Key Characteristics
Whole Wheat Roti (Plain)	100-120 kcal	High in fiber, good source of carbs.
Whole Wheat Roti (with 1 tsp ghee)	145-165 kcal	Richer flavor, added healthy fats.
Bajra Roti	91 kcal	Gluten-free, rich in iron and fiber.
Multigrain Roti	104-115 kcal	Enhanced nutritional profile with multiple grains.
White Bread (1 slice)	~90 kcal	Lower fiber, often higher in salt and additives.

Nutritional Benefits Beyond Calories

While desi ghee adds calories, it also offers significant nutritional advantages. Ghee contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are essential for overall health. These vitamins require fat for proper absorption, making the ghee-roti combination beneficial for nutrient uptake. Additionally, desi ghee is rich in butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that supports digestive health and nourishes gut bacteria. Roti, made from whole wheat, contributes complex carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.

Healthy Consumption Tips for Roti

Moderation is key to incorporating roti and ghee into a balanced diet. Here are some tips for enjoying your meal while staying health-conscious:

Control Portion Sizes: Instead of larger, thicker rotis, opt for smaller, thinner ones to reduce the carbohydrate and calorie load per piece.
Measure Ghee Accurately: Use a measuring spoon to portion out ghee, rather than pouring it directly. A little goes a long way.
Pair with High-Fiber Foods: Serving rotis with plenty of vegetables, lentils (dal), and salads can increase fiber intake, keeping you feeling full for longer.
Try Alternative Flours: Experiment with different flours like bajra, jowar, or multigrain to boost nutrient intake and explore new flavors while managing calories.
Choose Phulka: Consider making phulkas, a type of roti cooked without oil or ghee, for a lower-fat option. A medium phulka has only around 93 kcal.

For more detailed nutritional insights, you can consult resources like the ones found at Max Protein.

Conclusion

While the calorie count for 2 roti with desi ghee can be estimated at 250-290 calories, it is crucial to remember that this number is an estimate. The final figure depends heavily on the roti's size, the type of flour used, and the amount of ghee applied. However, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, roti with desi ghee offers valuable nutrients, including healthy fats and fiber. By controlling portion sizes, measuring fats, and pairing with nutrient-dense foods, you can enjoy this staple without compromising your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, consuming roti with desi ghee in moderation is not bad for weight loss. Ghee provides healthy fats that increase satiety, and the fiber in roti keeps you full, which can help manage overall calorie intake.

You can reduce the calories in roti by using less ghee, making smaller or thinner rotis, or opting for a healthier alternative like a phulka (roti made without oil or ghee).

Roti is generally much lower in calories than naan. A single serving of naan can contain between 200 and 300 calories, depending on preparation, compared to a medium plain roti's 100-120 calories.

Healthy alternatives include bajra roti, ragi roti, or multigrain roti, all of which offer different nutrients and potentially lower calorie counts.

Yes, adding desi ghee can enhance the nutritional value of roti by improving the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and contributing healthy fats.

The ideal number of rotis per day depends on your individual calorie needs and activity level. Generally, 2-4 rotis as part of a balanced meal with vegetables and protein is a reasonable portion.

For weight loss, roti is often considered a better option than refined rice because of its higher fiber content and lower glycemic index, which promotes longer-lasting satiety and helps stabilize blood sugar.

You can use oil, but it will have a different flavor and nutritional profile. For calorie control, measure the oil just as you would ghee, as a teaspoon of oil also contains a similar number of calories.