Besan Chilla Recipe: Quick Gram Flour Pancakes
Are you looking for a quick and delicious breakfast or snack option? Look no further than besan chilla! This Indian pancake made with gram flour (besan) is easy to make and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you\’re a vegetarian or want to add more plant-based protein to your diet, this besan chilla recipe is perfect.
Besan chilla is a popular street food in India, and for good reason. It\’s made by mixing gram flour with water and various herbs and spices, such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander. The batter is then cooked on a tawa (a flat griddle) until golden and crispy on the edges. You can enjoy besan chilla on its own or with chutney or yogurt.
What makes besan chilla even more versatile is that you can customize it to your liking. Add vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or bell peppers for flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as cheese or paneer, to make it even more indulgent. The possibilities are endless!
So, if you\’re looking for a quick and healthy meal that\’s both delicious and satisfying, try this besan chilla recipe. It\’s a great way to start your day or enjoy it as an afternoon snack. Get creative with your toppings and fillings, and have fun experimenting with different flavors. Trust us: once you try besan chilla, you\’ll be hooked!
Besan Chilla Recipe: Quick Gram Flour Pancakes
Traditionally a popular snack in Indian cuisine, besan chilla is made from a batter of gram flour, also known as besan, mixed with spices and herbs. The batter is then ladled onto a hot griddle or pan and cooked until crisp and golden brown.
Its versatility and health benefits make Besan Chilla an excellent breakfast option. Gram flour is gluten-free and rich in protein, making it a satisfying choice for those on a gluten-free or vegetarian diet. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling full for longer.
Mix besan with water to form a smooth batter to make besan chilla. Add spices like cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder for a touch of heat and flavor. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies for extra crunch and freshness.
Once your batter is ready, heat a non-stick pan or griddle and pour a ladleful of batter onto it. Spread the batter into a thin, even circle using the back of the spoon. Cook the Chilla on medium heat until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until crisp and cooked through.
Serve your besan chilla hot with tangy mint chutney or yogurt for a complete and nutritious breakfast. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner option, pairing it with a fresh salad or pickle.
So why not give this besan chilla recipe a try? With its quick preparation and delicious taste, it\’s bound to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients and Preparation
To make Besan Chilla, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
- Two tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
- One green chili, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
- Oil or ghee for cooking
To prepare Besan Chilla, follow these steps:
- Add gram flour, chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander leaves, green chili, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the ingredients well and gradually add water to form a smooth batter. The batter should be of pouring consistency.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or tawa on medium heat and grease it lightly with oil or ghee.
- Pour a ladleful of the besan batter onto the skillet and spread it evenly in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
- Cook the Chilla on medium-low heat until the edges start to brown and the top surface looks cooked.
- Flip the Chilla and cook the other side for a minute or until it turns golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked Chilla to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Serve the Besan Chilla hot with chutney or ketchup.
Enjoy your homemade Besan Chilla!
Health Benefits of Besan Chilla
Besan chilla is not only a delicious and easy-to-make dish, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the vital health benefits of besan chilla:
1. High in Protein
Besan (gram flour) is a rich source of protein, making besan chilla a nutritious choice, especially for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is essential for many bodily functions, including muscle repair and immune system support.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Besan is naturally gluten-free, which makes besan chilla a suitable choice for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Gluten-free diets can help alleviate digestive issues and improve overall health.
3. Good Source of Fiber
Besan chilla contains good dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote feelings of fullness, making it beneficial for weight management.
4. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Besan contains essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients are vital in various bodily functions, including energy production, nerve function, and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
5. May Aid in Weight Loss
Besan chilla is a low-calorie option that can help with weight loss efforts. The high protein and fiber content in besan chilla can promote satiety and reduce hunger cravings, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit.
6. Supports Heart Health
Besan is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. Including besan chilla in your diet can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and maintain good heart health.
Incorporating besan chilla into your regular meals can be a great way to enjoy a delicious dish while reaping its numerous health benefits. Remember to complement it with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Besan chilla is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some variations and serving suggestions to try:
Variations:
You can add vegetables and herbs to the chilla batter to enhance flavor and nutrition. Some popular variations include:
- Spinach Chilla: Add finely chopped spinach to the batter for an added dose of vitamins.
- Onion and Tomato Chilla: Sautee finely chops onions and tomatoes and adds them to the batter for a tangy twist.
- Corn and Cheese Chilla: Add sweet corn kernels and grated cheese to the batter for a rich and savory chilla.
Serving Suggestions:
Once your besan chilla is ready, here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Chutney and Yogurt: Serve besan chilla with mint or coriander chutney and plain yogurt for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Indian Bread: Roll up the Chilla with fresh roti or paratha to create a delicious wrap.
- Sweet and Tangy Dip: Pair your Chilla with a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney for a burst of flavor.
- Salad: Serve besan chilla with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Experiment with different variations and serving ideas to make your besan chilla more exciting and enjoyable!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Besan Chilla
Making Besan Chilla is a quick and easy process requiring simple ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide to making besan chilla:
Step 1: Mix the batter
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of gram flour (besan), 1/4 cup of finely chopped onions, 1/4 cup of finely chopped tomatoes, 1/4 cup of finely chopped green bell peppers, 1/4 cup of chopped coriander leaves, 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of water. Mix well to form a smooth batter.
Step 2: Heat the skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet or tawa over medium heat. Once hot, drizzle a little oil and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Pour the batter
Pour a ladleful of the prepared batter onto the center of the hot skillet.
Step 4: Spread the batter
Using the back of the spoon, gently spread the batter in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
Step 5: Cook the Chilla
Cook the Chilla for 1-2 minutes on medium heat until the edges turn golden brown.
Step 6: Flip the Chilla
Using a spatula, carefully flip the Chilla to cook the other side. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.
Step 7: Serve hot
Once cooked, remove the Chilla from the skillet and serve hot with chutney or sauce of your choice. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Besan Chilla
Making the perfect besan chilla requires the proper technique and a few handy tips. Here are some tricks to help you achieve delicious and fluffy chillas:
- Use fresh, good-quality gram flour (besan) to ensure a smooth batter.
- Sift the besan before adding it to the batter to prevent any lumps.
- Gradually add water while whisking the batter to achieve a pouring consistency. The batter should not be too thick or too runny.
- Add spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, and cumin seeds to enhance the flavor of the Chilla.
- Let the batter rest for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the batter to settle.
- Use a non-stick skillet or tawa to cook the chillas. This ensures the chillas can be easily flipped and don’t stick to the pan.
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and reduce it to low before pouring the batter. This allows the Chilla to cook evenly without burning.
- Spread a thin layer of oil on the skillet before pouring the batter. This prevents the Chilla from sticking and adds a nice golden crust.
- Pour the batter onto the skillet in a circular motion to form a round shape. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly.
- Cook the Chilla on one side until it turns golden brown, and then flip it gently with a spatula to cook the other side.
- Serve the besan chilla hot with chutney or yogurt for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Following these tips and tricks, you can easily prepare delicious and perfect besan chillas every time. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your unique variations!
Q&A
What is Besan Chilla?
Besan Chilla is a pancake made from gram flour or besan. It is a popular Indian breakfast dish often served with chutney or yogurt.
How do you make Besan Chilla?
Mix gram flour with water, spices, and chopped vegetables to make Besan Chilla. Then, pour the batter onto a heated non-stick pan and cook until both sides are golden brown.
What are the ingredients for Besan Chilla?
The main ingredients for Besan Chilla are gram flour, water, salt, red chili powder, chopped onion, chopped tomatoes, chopped green chili, and chopped coriander leaves. You can also add other vegetables of your choice.
Can I make Besan Chilla without vegetables?
Yes, you can make Besan Chilla without vegetables. The basic recipe only requires gram flour, water, and spices. However, adding vegetables enhances the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
What can I serve with Besan Chilla?
You can serve Besan Chilla with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, yogurt, or tomato ketchup. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
What ingredients do I need to make Besan Chilla?
To make Besan Chilla (Gram Flour Pancakes), you will need gram flour (besan), water, onion, tomato, green chili, coriander leaves, ginger, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and oil.
Reviews
Jack Thompson
This besan chilla recipe is fantastic! I tried making it for breakfast, which was quick and easy, just like the article promised. The gram-flour pancakes were delicious and had a perfect balance of flavors. I loved that the recipe used simple ingredients readily available in the kitchen. The Chilla was light, fluffy, and healthy at the same time. It\’s a great option if you\’re looking for a quick and nutritious breakfast or even a snack. I\’m going to make it again and experiment with different fillings. This recipe is a winner, and I highly recommend trying it!
Sweetheart89
This Besan Chilla recipe is fantastic! I tried it yesterday, and it turned out to be delicious. The combination of gram flour and spices perfectly complemented each other. The best part is that it is so quick and easy to make. It\’s a perfect choice for a quick breakfast or even a light dinner. I also appreciated that it\’s a healthy option as it uses minimal oil. The Chilla had a nice crispy texture outside and a soft, savory filling. Adding vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and green chili gave it a refreshing taste. I highly recommend trying this recipe if you\’re looking for a simple yet tasty dish to try at home.
Emily Johnson
I love Beshan Chilla! It\’s a quick and easy recipe that always satisfies my cravings. The Chilla flour pancakes are so delicious and versatile. I often add vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and spinach to make it even more nutritious. The best part is that it can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. I appreciate how easy it is to make these chillas, especially when I\’m short on time. It\’s a perfect option for a busy woman like me. I highly recommend trying out this recipe if you\’re in the mood for something tasty and healthy!
James
These Besan Chilla pancakes are a quick and easy recipe that I love as a busy person. The gram flour adds a unique flavor and texture to the pancakes, making them light and fluffy. This recipe is perfect for those lazy weekend mornings when I want something delicious and filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part is that they can be customized with toppings like veggies, cheese, or even leftover meats. I also appreciate that this recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions. Overall, this Besan Chilla recipe is a winner in my book – quick, tasty, and versatile. I will be making it again!