Besan Chilla (Gram Flour Pancake)
Chilla, also known as besan chilla or gram flour pancake, is a quick and healthy Indian breakfast made with gram flour (besan) and chopped vegetables. This gluten-free, protein-rich recipe is ready in just 15 minutes and is perfect for breakfast or a light evening snack.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk or spoon
- 1 Non-stick or cast iron tawa (flat pan)
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 cup gram flour besan
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato finely chopped
- 5 green chilies finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons coriander leaves finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup water as needed
- 1 teaspoon oil for cooking; more as needed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup gram flour (besan).
- Add chopped onions, tomato, green chilies, and coriander leaves.
- (Optional) Add chopped spinach for more nutrition.
- Add spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt.
- Mix everything thoroughly.
- Slowly add water (1/2 to 3/4 cup) to form a smooth, medium-thin batter for chilla.
- Heat a non-stick or cast iron pan on medium heat.
- Add 1 teaspoon oil (mustard oil recommended) and spread it evenly.
- Pour a ladleful of batter on the center and spread it in a circular motion to make a thin pancake.
- Cover the chilla and cook for 4–5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Drizzle oil around edges of chilla, flip, and cook the other side till golden.
- Remove chilla from the pan and serve hot with your favorite chutney or curd.
Notes
- Chilla With Chutney: Green coriander chutney, coconut chutney, omint chutney or tamarind chutney.
- With Curd: Serve with plain yogurt or spiced raita.
- With Indian Tea: Best enjoyed with hot Indian masala chai (Indian Spiced Tea).