Origin & Significance
Besan Chilla, also known as Besan Cheela, is a popular North Indian savory pancake made with gram flour (besan) and an assortment of spices. Often enjoyed as a nutritious breakfast or evening snack, it is a quick and easy dish that requires minimal ingredients. High in protein and gluten-free, Besan Chilla is an excellent option for a healthy, wholesome meal. It is often paired with mint chutney, curd, or tomato ketchup, making it a delightful treat for all age groups.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Besan Chilla Batter
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 12 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup spinach or fenugreek leaves (optional, finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Step-by-Step Preparation
📌 Step 1: Preparing the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add gram flour (besan).
- Slowly add water while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, and coriander leaves.
- Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, carom seeds, garam masala, asafoetida, and salt.
- Optionally, add yogurt for a softer texture.
- Stir well to form a smooth, pourable batter. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
📌 Step 2: Cooking the Chilla
- Heat a non-stick pan or tawa on medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
- Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it evenly in a circular shape.
- Drizzle a little oil around the edges and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chilla carefully and cook for another 2 minutes until crisp.
- Repeat for the remaining batter.
📌 Step 3: Serving
- Serve hot with mint chutney, curd, or tomato ketchup.
- Enjoy your delicious and healthy Besan Chilla!
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
🌾 Gram Flour (Besan)
- High in protein and fiber, aiding digestion and weight management.
- Gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten intolerance.
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index.
🧅 Onions & Tomatoes
- Rich in antioxidants that support immunity and skin health.
- Onions contain sulfur compounds that promote heart health.
- Tomatoes are high in vitamin C and lycopene, beneficial for eye and heart health.
🌿 Carom Seeds (Ajwain) & Cumin Seeds
- Improve digestion and reduce bloating.
- Contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
🌶 Green Chilies & Turmeric
- Green chilies boost metabolism and immunity.
- Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
🥬 Spinach & Fenugreek Leaves
- Packed with iron, folate, and essential vitamins for overall health.
- Helps in detoxification and improves gut health.
Indulge in the crispy, flavorful Besan Chilla, a perfect blend of taste and nutrition! Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal, this versatile dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Try making this authentic Indian recipe using premium-quality spices from SwadesCart.com.
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