How Many Calories in a Mooli Makki Roti?

January 10, 2026 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard mooli makki roti contains approximately 126 calories. This gluten-free Punjabi flatbread, made from maize flour and grated radish, is a hearty and flavorful dish, but its exact calorie content can vary depending on cooking methods and ingredient portions.

Quick Summary

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the calorie content and nutritional profile of mooli makki roti. It explores how variations in ingredients and preparation techniques can alter the final caloric value, including a comparison with other popular Indian flatbreads.

Key Points

Standard Calorie Count: One mooli makki roti typically contains around 126 calories, though this can vary based on preparation.
Fat Content is Key: The amount of oil or ghee used during cooking is the main variable influencing the roti's final calorie count.
Gluten-Free and High-Fiber: Made with maize flour and radish, this roti is a great gluten-free, high-fiber option that aids digestion,.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Key ingredients like maize and radish provide essential nutrients, including fiber, zinc, magnesium, and Vitamin C,,.
Healthier than Paratha: A mooli makki roti is significantly lower in calories than a standard mooli paratha, which often contains 300+ calories.
Mindful Cooking: Reduce calories by using minimal fat, controlling portion size, and adding extra low-calorie vegetables.

The Calorie and Nutritional Profile of Mooli Makki Roti

The mooli makki roti is a beloved winter staple in North India, especially in Punjab. It is celebrated for its rustic flavor and wholesome ingredients. A typical serving of one mooli makki roti provides around 126 calories. The total calorie count is distributed across its macronutrients in the following approximate manner: 49 calories from carbohydrates, 73 calories from fat, and 4 calories from protein. However, this is a general guideline, and the final nutritional value is influenced by several factors, including the amount of fat used during cooking, the size of the roti, and any additional ingredients added to the dough.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Carbohydrates: A single roti contains approximately 12.3 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from the maize flour. Maize flour is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
Fat: Fat content can range significantly, but is roughly 8.12 grams per roti, mostly influenced by the cooking oil or ghee. The use of less oil or switching to a healthier fat can significantly reduce this figure.
Protein: The protein content is relatively low, at about 1.1 grams per serving. While not a primary protein source, it contributes to overall intake, especially when paired with protein-rich curries like sarson da saag.

Health Benefits of Mooli and Makki

Beyond the calories, the ingredients in a mooli makki roti offer notable health advantages.

Maize Flour (Makki Ka Atta):
- Gluten-Free: As it is naturally gluten-free, this is an excellent alternative for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content in maize flour supports healthy digestion, helps with weight management by promoting satiety, and is beneficial for diabetics as it helps manage blood sugar levels.
- Rich in Zinc and Magnesium: Maize flour contains essential minerals like zinc, crucial for insulin formation, and magnesium, which helps maintain a steady heartbeat and normal blood pressure,.
Radish (Mooli):
- Packed with Vitamins: Mooli is a great source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation and helps protect cells.
- Heart-Protective: Radish contains heart-friendly nutrients such as Vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium.
- High in Fiber: Similar to maize flour, the fiber in radish aids in lowering cholesterol levels.

Comparison: Mooli Makki Roti vs. Other Breads

To put the calories of a mooli makki roti into perspective, here is a comparison with other common Indian flatbreads. The values can vary based on size and preparation.


Flatbread Type	Approximate Calories per Piece (Medium)	Key Differences
Mooli Makki Roti	126 kcal	Gluten-free, contains radish, often made with ghee/oil.
Makki ki Roti (Plain)	90-110 kcal,	Gluten-free, lower calorie if cooked without excess fat.
Whole Wheat Roti	120 kcal	Made from wheat flour, contains gluten, usually cooked without oil.
Mooli Paratha	310 kcal	Stuffed with spiced radish and typically cooked with more oil/ghee, significantly higher in calories.
Gobhi Paratha	182 kcal	Stuffed with cauliflower, lower calorie than mooli paratha.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count

Amount of Ghee or Oil: This is the most significant factor. A roti fried or cooked with a generous amount of fat will have a much higher calorie count than one roasted with minimal or no oil. Using a healthy fat or a lesser amount is key for calorie control.
Roti Size and Thickness: Larger or thicker rotis naturally use more flour and will contain more calories. Smaller, thinner rotis will be lower in calories, making portion control easier.
Extra Ingredients: Some recipes add other vegetables like methi (fenugreek leaves), which slightly alters the nutritional profile. The inclusion of spices doesn't drastically change the calorie count but adds flavor and potential health benefits.

Making a Healthier Mooli Makki Roti

To enjoy this delicious dish while managing calorie intake, consider these tips:

Reduce Added Fat: Cook the roti on a non-stick tawa with a light brush of oil or ghee, or dry roast it completely.
Control Portion Size: Opt for smaller, thinner rotis rather than large, thick ones.
Squeeze Radish Well: Ensure all excess moisture is squeezed out of the grated radish. This makes the dough easier to work with, reducing the need for more flour, which adds calories.
Add More Vegetables: Incorporating other low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables like spinach or methi leaves can increase the volume and nutritional value without a significant calorie spike.

Conclusion: A Nutritious and Versatile Choice

When prepared mindfully, a mooli makki roti can be a nutritious part of a balanced diet. Its gluten-free nature, high fiber content from maize flour and radish, and rich profile of vitamins and minerals make it a healthier alternative to many other heavy or processed flatbreads. By being conscious of cooking fat and portion size, you can enjoy its unique flavor and health benefits without over-consuming calories.

Visit Tarla Dalal for detailed recipes and nutritional information.

Frequently Asked Questions

When consumed in moderation and prepared with minimal oil, mooli makki roti can be part of a weight loss diet. Its high fiber content helps you feel full, which can prevent overeating,.

Mooli makki roti generally contains slightly more calories than plain makki roti due to the additional ingredients and potential use of more fat. However, the exact difference depends on the recipe and cooking method,.

Yes, traditional makki roti, made with maize flour, is naturally gluten-free. This makes it a suitable flatbread option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

To reduce the calorie count, use minimal oil or ghee during cooking, make the rotis thinner, and squeeze the excess water out of the grated radish to avoid using extra flour.

The calories mainly come from the maize flour (carbohydrates) and the fat used for cooking, such as oil or ghee. The radish itself is very low in calories,.

Due to its high fiber content from both maize flour and radish, it can be slightly heavier to digest than regular wheat roti for some individuals. Portion control is advised to avoid any gastric discomfort.

Mooli (radish) adds several health benefits, including a significant boost of fiber, vitamin C, and heart-protective nutrients like potassium and folic acid,.