Besan Chilla is a popular North Indian savory pancake made using chickpea flour (besan). It is quick to prepare, protein-rich, and can be customized with vegetables and spices, making it ideal for a healthy breakfast or lunch box option.
Ingredients
- Besan (gram flour) – 1 cup
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Green chilli – 1 (finely chopped)
- Ginger – 1 tsp (grated)
- Coriander leaves – 2 tbsp (chopped)
- Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
- Red chilli powder – ½ tsp
- Cumin seeds – ½ tsp
- Ajwain (carom seeds) – ¼ tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Water – as needed (to make pouring batter)
- Oil – for cooking
Preparation Method
- Take besan in a bowl and add salt, turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin seeds, and ajwain.
- Add onion, green chilli, ginger, and coriander leaves.
- Gradually add water and mix to make a smooth, medium-thick batter without lumps.
- Heat a tawa and lightly grease it with oil.
- Pour a ladle of batter and spread gently into a round chilla.
- Drizzle oil around the edges and cook on medium flame.
- Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Health Benefits
- Rich in plant-based protein
- Naturally gluten-free
- Keeps you full for longer
- Helps in blood sugar control
- Good for digestion when ajwain is added
Tips
- Batter should not be too thick or too runny
- Cook on medium flame for even cooking
- Add a pinch of hing for better digestion
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned tawa
Variations
- Vegetable Chilla: Add grated carrot, capsicum, or cabbage
- Paneer Chilla: Add grated paneer for extra protein
- Spinach Chilla: Mix finely chopped palak into batter
- Crispy Chilla: Add 1 tsp rice flour to the batter