Besan Jo Chillo
A savory, protein-rich Indian pancake made from chickpea flour, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious option for breakfast or a light meal, ready in under 35 minutes.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Batter
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the besan, ajwain, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Whisk well to break up any lumps.
- c.Add the finely chopped onion, tomato, green chilies, coriander leaves, and ginger paste to the dry ingredients. Give it a quick mix.
- d.Gradually pour in about 1.25 cups of water while whisking continuously to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be pourable, similar to a crepe or thin pancake batter.
- e.Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if the batter is too thick. Let the batter rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the besan to hydrate fully.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Chillas
- b.Heat a non-stick tava or skillet over medium heat. To check if it's ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately.
- c.Lightly grease the pan with about 1/2 teaspoon of oil.
- d.Stir the batter once more, then pour a ladleful (about 1/4 cup) onto the center of the hot pan.
- e.Using the back of the ladle, quickly spread the batter in a circular motion to form a thin, even pancake, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
- f.Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges and on top of the chilla.
- g.Cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat, until the top surface looks dry and the edges start to crisp up and lift from the pan.
- h.Carefully slide a spatula underneath and flip the chilla. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden-brown spots appear.
- i.Remove the chilla from the pan and place it on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Repeat and Serve
- b.Repeat the process with the remaining batter, lightly greasing the pan before making each chilla.
- c.Serve the Besan Jo Chillo hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or a side of plain yogurt.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a crispier chilla, add 2 tablespoons of rice flour or sooji (semolina) to the batter.
- 2Ensure the pan is well-heated before pouring the batter to prevent it from sticking.
- 3Do not spread the batter too thin, as it might break while flipping.
- 4Resting the batter is a crucial step; it improves the texture and flavor of the chillas.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of oil for cooking.
- 6Always stir the batter well before making each chilla, as the besan tends to settle at the bottom.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable-Loaded
Add finely grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, or chopped spinach to the batter for extra nutrition and flavor.
Paneer ChillaPaneer Chilla
Add 1/2 cup of crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the batter for a protein-packed version.
Spicy Masala ChillaSpicy Masala Chilla
Add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala and 1/4 teaspoon of chaat masala to the batter for a spicier, more tangy flavor.
VeganVegan
This recipe is naturally vegan. Ensure you use oil for cooking instead of ghee.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Besan (chickpea flour) is an excellent source of vegetarian protein, which is crucial for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
High in Dietary Fiber
The combination of besan and vegetables provides a high amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight by keeping you full for longer.
Naturally Gluten-Free
As it's made from chickpeas, besan is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a perfect and safe option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Good for Blood Sugar Control
Besan has a low glycemic index, which means it releases sugar into the bloodstream slowly. This helps in managing blood sugar levels, making it a suitable choice for diabetics.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Besan is naturally gluten-free, rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber. The added vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.