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Roti Wala Chaba in English: Handwoven Roti Basket Guide
A roti wala chaba, also spelt chabha, is a round handwoven basket used to carry, keep and serve rotis at the table. In English it is called a roti basket or chapati basket. Ours is a 12 inch handwoven chaba with a multicolour border, and it costs PKR 650. Below is how to use it, clean it and choose the right companions.
Quick answer
- What it is: a handwoven basket for keeping rotis, naan or bread at the table.
- English names: roti basket, chapati basket, bread basket.
- Our size and price: 12 inches across, PKR 650.
- Care: shake out crumbs, wipe with a dry cloth, never soak.
- Also useful for: dry snacks, fruit and bread, according to the product page.
What does roti wala chaba mean in English?
The word chaba (or chabha, chabi) is a Punjabi and Urdu word for a woven basket or tray. A roti wala chaba is the one that holds rotis. People search for it as “roti rakhne wala chaba”, “chaba for roti” or “roti chaba in english”, and the English answer is a roti basket. It is a traditional piece of Pakistani kitchen craft that makes a table feel prepared for guests.
What is our roti chaba like?
The handwoven roti wala chaba is made by Pakistani artisans from natural materials, according to the product page. It is 12 inches, round, lightweight and has a multicolour border. The page says the open weave helps keep rotis fresh and warm, and that it also works for naan and dry items.
How to use a roti chaba
- Line the chaba with a clean cotton cloth or a napkin. The cloth soaks up steam from fresh rotis.
- Stack rotis as they come off the tawa and fold the cloth over the top.
- Bring the chaba to the table, and keep it near the person serving.
- Do not leave wet or very hot dishes sitting directly on the basket.
- Empty it after the meal so leftover crumbs and moisture do not stay inside.
Rotis will still cool over time, so make fresh ones in batches for a long meal. For serving curries and other dishes that you want to keep warm, a wooden hot pot with brass work is described on its product page as heat retaining, 12 inches wide and 4 inches high.
How to clean and store a woven chaba
- Shake out crumbs after every use.
- Wipe with a dry or very slightly damp cloth. Do not soak or scrub it.
- Let it dry in the open air, out of direct sun, before storing it.
- Wash the cloth liner often, as the cloth takes most of the mess.
- Store in a dry place with air around it, because a damp basket can grow mould.
- Do not use the dishwasher or harsh cleaners.
How to choose a roti chaba
- Size: 12 inches holds a stack of rotis for a family meal. Pick a larger one only if you serve a big table every day.
- Weave: look for even, tight weaving with no loose or sharp ends that could catch on fabric.
- Edges: a finished, smooth border is more comfortable to hold and lasts longer.
- Colour: a multicolour border looks lively on a plain table, while a simple one blends in.
- Weight: light enough to carry from the kitchen with one hand, as the product page describes ours.
A chaba also makes a thoughtful gift for a new home or a wedding because it is useful and clearly handmade. Pair it with a chakla belan for a set of Pakistani kitchen basics.
Chakla belan: the other half of the roti set
Chakla belan, also searched as chakla belana, is the rolling board (chakla) and rolling pin (belan) used to roll dough for rotis and parathas. Our wooden chakla belan with brass work comes as a standard roller and a 12 by 12 inch base for PKR 1,200. The product page says the base is smooth and polished, and that the roller has handles for a secure grip.
To care for a wooden chakla and belan, scrape off dough with a spatula, wipe with a damp cloth, and dry completely. Avoid soaking it and avoid leaving it in the sink.
Choosing the right roti set
| Item | Used for | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handwoven roti chaba | Keeping and serving rotis | 12 inches | PKR 650 |
| Wooden chakla belan | Rolling dough | 12 by 12 inch base | PKR 1,200 |
| Wooden hot pot | Serving dishes warm | 12 inch diameter, 4 inch height | PKR 2,800 |
Prices are correct at the time of writing. You can browse more in our wooden products and kitchen collections.
Frequently asked questions
What is a roti wala chaba called in English?
It is called a roti basket, chapati basket or bread basket.
What is the price of a roti chaba?
Our handwoven roti wala chaba is PKR 650 at the time of writing, so check the product page for the current price.
How do I clean a woven roti basket?
Shake out crumbs, wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth, and dry it fully in open air. Do not soak it.
Does a chaba keep rotis warm?
The product page says the breathable weave helps keep rotis fresh and warm. Using a cloth liner also helps.
What is chakla belan in English?
Chakla is the rolling board and belan is the rolling pin.
If you are setting up a Pakistani kitchen, start with the handwoven roti chaba and add a chakla belan to match.