Power-Packed Besan Chilla: A Quick Indian Pancake for Every Mood
If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious vegetarian meal that’s ready in minutes, Besan Chilla is your answer! Often referred to as the Indian savory pancake, besan chilla is made from gram flour and packed with vegetables, herbs, and Indian spices. It's not only easy to whip up but also high in protein, fiber, and flavor — making it a perfect breakfast, snack, or light dinner option.Whether you're on a weight loss journey, trying to add more plant-based protein to your diet, or simply need a fuss-free meal idea, this versatile dish fits right in. Plus, with endless variations — from adding spinach and paneer to stuffing it like a wrap — besan chilla never gets boring.In this blog, I’ll walk you through a wholesome besan chilla recipe, share pro tips, and offer ideas to customize it to your health and taste preferences.
Ingredients
Ingredients (for 2 chillas):
- 1 Katori besan gram flour
- ¼ Katori finely chopped onion (ignore if forming gas)
- ¼ Katori grated carrot
- ¼ Katori chopped tomato
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
- 1 chopped green chili optional
- ½ tsp ajwain carom seeds – aids digestion
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ¼ tsp red chili powder optional
- Salt to taste
- ½– ¾ Katori water adjust for pouring consistency
- 1 tsp oil or ghee for cooking Skip & you can make it oil free too
Optional Add-ins (to boost nutrition):
- 1 tbsp flaxseed powder or chia seeds
- 2 tbsp crumbled paneer or tofu for protein boost
- Spinach or methi leaves chopped
Instructions
Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, add besan and all the chopped vegetables, spices, and herbs. Slowly add water to make a lump-free, pourable batter. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
Heat the Pan:
- Use a non-stick or iron tawa. Grease lightly with oil and heat on medium flame.
Cook the Chilla:
- Pour a ladleful of batter and spread gently like a dosa. Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges.
Flip & Cook:
- Cook one side until golden and crisp (2–3 minutes), then flip and cook the other side.
Serve Hot:
- Serve with green chutney, curd, or tomato chutney. (homemade)
Notes
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, add a spoon of rice flour.
- Pair it with a bowl of curd for a protein-rich complete meal.
- Add Ajwain to avoid indigestion due to chickpea flour.
- Add Seasonal Veggies every time you are making Chillas to add enough fiber.
- Serve hot for better taste and yumminess.
