Besan Chilla, also known as Besan ka Cheela, are simple, protein-packed pancakes from North Indian cuisine. They are quick and easy to make with just a few pantry staples. These pancakes are gluten-free, vegan, and loved by kids. They are a great choice for a nutritious breakfast for the whole family.
Key Takeaways
- Besan Chilla is a high-protein breakfast option that provides essential nutrients for a healthy diet.
- Gram flour, the main ingredient, is fiber-rich and can aid in weight loss by keeping you full for longer.
- Besan is considered healthy when made and eaten fresh.
- Chilla can be a suitable light dinner option when accompanied by side dishes like salad or soup.
- Consuming Besan Chilla fresh and hot is recommended for optimal taste and texture.
HERE IS YOUR OUTPUT
Besan Chilla – Indian Chickpea Flour Pancake
Protein-Packed Besan Chilla for Weight Loss
Ingredients:
1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
1/2 cup water (adjust as needed for batter consistency)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small tomato, finely chopped
1 green chili, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Directions:
In a large bowl, add the besan, water, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Whisk until you have a smooth batter.
Stir in the chopped onion, tomato, green chili, fresh coriander, and cumin seeds. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil.
Pour a ladle of the besan batter onto the skillet and spread it evenly in a circular shape like a pancake.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and crispy.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Serve hot with mint chutney or yogurt.Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per chilla | Servings: 4 servings
DISH PRESENTATION PARAGRAPHS
Besan Chilla is an incredibly versatile, protein-packed breakfast option made with chickpea flour. Not only is it gluten-free and vegan, but it also contains a healthy dose of fiber, making it perfect for those aiming to lose weight while staying energized. With fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, this savory Indian pancake offers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
This dish is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time. Besan can be enjoyed on its own, paired with chutneys, or even served alongside yogurt for an extra protein boost. Ideal for busy mornings or a quick snack, it’s a great way to start your day on a healthy note!
What is Besan Chilla?
Besan Chilla, also known as Besan Cheela or Pudla, are savory Indian pancakes. They are made with besan (gram flour). These pancakes are a healthy breakfast choice because of the gram flour’s nutrients.
They are naturally gluten-free and vegan. This makes them perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Unleavened Indian Pancakes
Besan Chilla are aromatic and flavorful pancakes. They get their taste from spices like ajwain (carom seeds) and turmeric. Unlike other pancakes, they don’t have yeast, so they’re dense and filling.
These pancakes are a favorite snack in North Indian states. They go by different names like puda, pudla, or poli in Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan
Besan Chilla are great because they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan. Using gram flour instead of wheat flour makes them good for people with gluten sensitivities or those who are vegan. This makes Besan a versatile snack for many people.
“Besan is a savory Indian pancake that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy breakfast choice.”
Why You Should Try Besan Chilla
Besan Chilla is a great breakfast choice for many reasons. It’s
quick and easy to make
, needing only a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time. This makes it ideal for busy mornings when you’re in a rush.
Also, Besan Chilla is a
kid-friendly breakfast
that everyone will like. The savory pancakes taste great for both adults and kids. It’s a dish that pleases the whole family.
Lastly, Besan Chilla is
highly customizable
, letting you add different vegetables, herbs, and spices. You can make it traditional or try new flavors. It’s a breakfast you can easily change up.
“The Besan batter comes together quickly in just 20 minutes, making it a convenient breakfast option for busy mornings.”
If you want a nutritious, delicious, and versatile breakfast that everyone will enjoy, try the easy Besan Chilla recipe today!
besan chilla breakfast recipe
Start your day with a tasty and healthy besan chilla breakfast! This recipe for gram flour pancakes is easy and packed with protein and flavor. It uses gram flour, spices, and chopped veggies like onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. Enjoy it alone or with chutneys and pickles.
Besan, or gram flour, is a key ingredient in Indian cooking. It’s versatile and good for your health. This besan recipe is gluten-free and vegan. It also gives you a high-protein start to your day, with about 7 grams of protein per serving.
Looking for a weight loss breakfast or a tasty, nutritious meal? This besan chilla recipe is perfect. Let’s explore how to make this great breakfast dish.
Ingredients for Besan Chilla
- 1 cup Gram Flour (besan)
- 1/4 teaspoon Carom Seeds (ajwain), optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Powder or 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 medium Tomato, finely chopped (approx. 1/3 cup)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (approx. 1/3 cup)
- 1 Green Chili, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped Coriander Leaves
- 2/3 cup Water (or more up to 1 cup)
How to Make Besan Chilla
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour, carom seeds (if using), red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Mix well.
2. Add the finely chopped tomato, onion, green chili, and coriander leaves. Stir to spread the vegetables evenly.
3. Gradually add water and mix until you get a smooth batter. It should be a bit thicker than pancake batter.
4. Heat a non-stick tawa or griddle over medium heat. Pour some batter onto the hot surface and spread it into a 5-6 inch circle.
5. Cook the besan chilla for 2-3 minutes on one side, until it’s golden brown. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side.
6. Keep making the besan with the rest of the batter. Use a little oil or ghee on the tawa as needed.
Serve the hot, crispy besan chilla with your favorite chutneys, pickles, or sides. Enjoy this delightful and nutritious breakfast!
Nutritional Benefits of Besan (Gram Flour)
Besan, or gram flour, is a nutritional powerhouse. It makes Besan Chilla a healthy breakfast choice. This versatile ingredient is packed with essential nutrients for your well-being.
High in Protein and Fiber
Besan is a rich source of plant-based protein. It has 22.4g of protein per 100g. It’s also high in dietary fiber, with 10.8g per 100g.
This mix of protein and fiber keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Besan Chilla is an excellent option for weight management and overall health.
Low Glycemic Index
Besan has a low glycemic index. This means it doesn’t cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It’s a great choice for those looking to maintain stable blood sugar and support their weight loss journey.
The low glycemic index also helps you feel full for longer. It reduces the likelihood of cravings and overeating.
Besan is also a valuable source of essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It contains B vitamins, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients play vital roles in supporting overall health and well-being.
Incorporating Besan Chilla into your breakfast routine can provide a nutritious and satisfying start to your day. It helps you feel energized and on-track with your health goals.
Ingredients for Besan Chilla
Creating a delightful besan chilla starts with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need besan (gram flour), water, and fresh veggies and spices. Let’s explore the key ingredients for this tasty Indian pancake.
The main ingredient is 1 cup of besan (gram flour). It’s the base, making the batter gluten-free and protein-rich.
For the batter, use 1 to 1 1/4 cups of water. This mix makes the batter just right, not too thick or too thin. This ensures your besan chilla turns out crisp and tender.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Besan (Gram Flour) | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 to 1 1/4 cups |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Green Bell Pepper, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Ginger, grated | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chilies, finely chopped | 1-2 |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Kashmiri Red Chili Powder | 1/2 to 1 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cilantro, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Cooking Oil (as needed) | – |
Adding onions, tomatoes, and green bell peppers boosts flavor and nutrition. These veggies add color, crunch, and sweetness.
Spices like grated ginger, green chilies, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, ajwain (carom seeds), and asafoetida (hing) are key. They add warmth, depth, and a bit of heat.
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a fresh herbal taste. It complements the savory besan perfectly.
With these ingredients ready, you can make delicious besan chilla. It’s a great breakfast or snack that you can tailor to your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
To make the perfect besan chilla, start by mixing gram flour in a bowl. Add spices like cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Then, add chopped onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Slowly pour in water and whisk until smooth. The batter should be thick but easy to pour, like pancake batter.
Cooking the Chilla
When your besan chilla batter is ready, heat a non-stick pan or griddle. Grease it with a bit of oil or ghee. Then, pour some batter and spread it into a circle.
Cook for a few minutes until the bottom is golden and the edges crisp. Flip it over and cook the other side until it’s also golden.
Serve the besan chilla warm with yogurt, chutneys, or pickles. It’s a great breakfast or snack. You can also add different veggies, herbs, or spices to make it your own.
“Besan chilla is a quick, easy, and versatile breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings. The combination of protein-rich gram flour and colorful veggies makes it a nutritious and satisfying meal.”
– Freda Dias, recipe author and food blogger
Variations and Customizations
The besan chilla is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your liking. You can make it veggie-packed, add spinach for extra nutrients, or stuff it with paneer for more protein. The choices are endless.
Vegetable Chilla
For a veggie-packed besan chilla, just grate or chop your favorite veggies and mix them into the batter. Carrot, bell peppers, cabbage, tomatoes, and scallions are great choices. They add flavor and nutrition to your chilla.
Spinach Chilla
Add a boost of nutrients by mixing in fresh spinach or methi leaves. The green color and earthy taste make it a healthy and tasty breakfast choice.
Paneer Chilla
For a protein-rich version, add grated paneer to the batter or use it as a filling. Paneer’s creamy texture and mild taste go well with besan’s nutty flavor.
Choosing the right mix of flavors and ingredients is key to a great besan. Try different combinations to find your favorite!
Serving Suggestions
Besan Chilla is a tasty Indian pancake made from gram flour. It’s great for breakfast or a snack. You can enjoy it with spicy chutney, tangy pickle, or soothing masala tea.
To make your Chilla even better, try a chilla sandwich. Put the pancake between two slices of bread and add your favorite toppings. You can use fresh veggies, tangy chutneys, or creamy spreads. This turns the pancake into a fulfilling meal that’s easy to take with you.
Besan Chilla is also perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a simple salad or dal (lentil stew). The pancake’s protein and the freshness of the salad or the warmth of the dal make for a balanced meal.
- Serve Besan Chilla with spicy chutney, tangy pickle, or masala tea for a traditional breakfast or snack
- Make a Besan sandwich by placing the pancake between two slices of bread and adding your favorite toppings
- Enjoy Besan Chilla as a light lunch or dinner when paired with a simple salad or dal
No matter how you serve it, Besan Chilla is a versatile and tasty dish. It can be customized to fit your taste and dietary needs. Explore different ways to enjoy this protein-rich Indian treat.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Making make ahead besan chilla is easy. Just mix the ingredients and store the batter in the fridge. Then, cook a tasty breakfast quickly whenever you want.
The batter for these chilla stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. Add your favorite veggies like onions, tomatoes, or spinach when you cook. This makes besan chilla a great, easy breakfast choice.
If you have leftover chilla, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with oil or in the microwave for a quick meal.
“The best part about besan is how easy they are to make ahead of time. I love being able to have a wholesome breakfast ready to go in the morning.”
With these tips, you can enjoy besan chilla anytime. Make the batter ahead for a stress-free, tasty breakfast every day.
Conclusion
Besan Chilla is a simple, nutritious, and tasty breakfast option. It’s great for adding more protein and fiber to your diet. It’s quick to make, versatile, and kids love it, making it a top choice for a healthy morning meal.
This traditional Indian pancake is perfect on its own or with your favorite chutneys and sides. It’s sure to become a hit with your family.
Besan Chilla is packed with benefits. Gram flour, its main ingredient, is rich in protein and fiber. This makes it a filling and satisfying start to your day. It also helps control blood sugar levels, which is good for your health and weight.
You can customize Chilla to your liking, whether you want it loaded with veggies or with a cheesy paneer twist. It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and nutritious way to begin your day. Try Besan and see how it can benefit your health.
FAQ
- Is besan chilla rich in protein?
- Yes, besan chilla is rich in protein, especially for a plant-based food. Besan, or chickpea flour, contains a good amount of protein, making it a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- How to eat besan for protein?
- You can eat besan in various forms, such as besan chilla, besan pancakes, or even adding it to soups and stews. To boost the protein content, you can add ingredients like paneer, tofu, or vegetables rich in protein.
- Can we eat besan in the morning for weight loss?
- Yes, besan can be a great breakfast option for weight loss. It’s high in protein and fiber, which can help keep you full longer and reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.
- How much protein is in 100 grams of besan chilla?
- On average, 100 grams of besan chilla contains about 7-8 grams of protein. The exact amount may vary depending on the ingredients and preparation method.
- How to make besan a complete protein?
- Besan is not a complete protein on its own, but you can pair it with other protein sources like dairy (milk, yogurt), grains (rice, quinoa), or legumes (lentils, beans) to ensure you get all essential amino acids.
- Does besan have more protein than an egg?
- No, besan does not have more protein than an egg. One large egg typically contains about 6-7 grams of protein, while 100 grams of besan contains around 7 grams. However, the protein quality of eggs is generally higher because they contain all the essential amino acids.