By: Times Foodie
Updated Jul 8, 2026 | 16:09 IST
Sadhguru, renowned for his commitment to a simple and healthy lifestyle, recently showcased his culinary skills in a YouTube cooking session alongside celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor. During the episode, the two exchanged their cooking philosophies, culminating in Sadhguru preparing a beloved dish from Karnataka known as 'Akki Roti.' When asked by Chef Kapoor about his connection to Karnataka, Sadhguru expressed, "I have lived most of my early life in Karnataka and hence there is this unsaid love for all things Karnataka."
Akki Roti, a traditional flatbread, derives its name from the Kannada word 'akki,' meaning rice. This dish is a staple in Karnataka, typically enjoyed for breakfast or dinner. It is made by mixing rice flour with finely chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, optional grated carrots, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and salt. The roti is often served with accompaniments such as coconut chutney, vegetable curry, yogurt, or pickle, making it a versatile meal option.
To prepare Akki Roti, one begins by chopping the vegetables and combining them with rice flour, onion, green chilies, coriander, cumin, curry leaves, grated carrot, and salt in a mixing bowl. After gently mixing the ingredients, warm water is gradually added to form a soft, pliable dough. The dough is then divided into small balls, which are flattened into thin rounds on a greased surface before being cooked on a preheated tawa with oil or ghee until golden brown on both sides.
Sadhguru emphasizes that Akki Roti is a wholesome meal, especially when paired with protein-rich sides like lentil curry or yogurt. The dish is rich in carbohydrates, providing lasting energy, while the addition of vegetables contributes essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals. He also recommends using less oil and incorporating more vegetables to enhance its health benefits.
In addition to Akki Roti, Sadhguru highlighted other rice-based dishes popular in South India. These include rice flour dosa, which is a quick alternative to traditional dosa, and Modak, a steamed rice dumpling filled with coconut and jaggery. Other notable mentions are chakli, a deep-fried snack, and Ghawan, a delicate rice pancake best served with coconut chutney. Each of these dishes showcases the versatility and nutritional value of rice flour in South Indian cuisine.