If you’re on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and flavorful breakfast option, the Besan Chilla is the perfect dish to try. Also known as Besan Cheela in some regions, this savory pancake made from gram flour (besan) is not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. In this recipe, we’ll explore the step-by-step process to make this popular Indian breakfast, along with its variations and ideas to pair with it. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or looking to add a wholesome recipe to your collection, this Besan Chilla will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day.
What is Besan Chilla?
Besan Chilla, often called Tomato Omelette in some variations, is a traditional Indian dish made from besan (chickpea flour), which is a gluten-free and protein-rich flour. It is similar to a pancake but savory, typically made with a combination of spices, vegetables, and herbs. Often enjoyed as a Besan breakfast recipe, it’s an excellent alternative to regular pancakes or omelettes, especially for those seeking plant-based or vegetarian options.
The versatility of the Besan Chilla recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can add various vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, spinach, and bell peppers to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value. If you’re looking for a new way to incorporate besan into your diet, this is a great place to start.
Ingredients for Besan Chilla
Para hacer la perfect Besan Chilla, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of besan (chickpea flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- Sal al gusto
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain) (optional)
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 finely chopped tomato
- 1 finely chopped green chili (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach or cilantro
- Water as needed (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup)
- Oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Besan Chilla Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to preparing the Besan Chilla.
1. Prepare the Besan Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add besan (chickpea flour), turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, sal, and any optional spices like asafoetida y carom seeds. Stir the dry ingredients together until well combined.
Gradually add water to the besan mixture while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Aim for a smooth batter with a consistency similar to pancake batter – not too thick, but not too runny either. You can adjust the water according to your desired consistency.
2. Add Vegetables
Next, add the finely chopped cebolla, tomato, green chili (if using), and espinacas o cilantro into the batter. These vegetables not only add flavor but also make the chilla more nutritious. Mix everything together until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick or cast-iron pan on medium heat. Once it’s hot, lightly grease the surface with a little oil or ghee (clarified butter). You can also use a cooking spray for a healthier option. Let the oil heat up slightly, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Besan Chilla
Pour a ladleful of the Besan Chilla batter onto the hot pan, spreading it out gently into a round shape using the back of the ladle. Make sure the chilla is not too thick or thin – about 1/4 inch in thickness is perfect. You can cook multiple chillas at once if you have a large pan.
Cook the chilla on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on one side. Once you see small bubbles forming on the surface, flip it over carefully using a spatula. Cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve Hot
Una vez que su Besan Chilla is cooked to perfection, remove it from the pan and serve it hot. You can pair it with a variety of dips and chutneys like mint chutney, tomato ketchup, o yogurt for a refreshing and tasty meal. Enjoy your Besan Chilla as a healthy breakfast or a light lunch.
Variation Ideas for Besan Chilla
The beauty of the Besan Chilla is its versatility. You can add a variety of vegetables and spices to make it your own. Here are some ideas:
- Spinach and Cheese Besan Chilla: Add grated cheese and finely chopped spinach to the batter for a creamy, savory twist.
- Coriander and Carrot Chilla: Grate carrots and mix in chopped fresh coriander for an added crunch and flavor.
- Cucumber Besan Chilla: Grated cucumber adds moisture and freshness to the chilla, making it perfect for a hot summer day.
- Tomato Besan Chilla: Add finely chopped tomatoes and a sprinkle of chat masala for a tangy and refreshing variation.
You can even experiment with different types of flour, such as rice flour, to make a gluten-free version of Besan Chilla.
Health Benefits of Besan Chilla
Aside from being incredibly delicious, the Besan Chilla offers several health benefits that make it an excellent addition to your diet:
- Alta en Proteínas: Besan is made from chickpeas, which are rich in protein. This makes the Besan Chilla a great option for vegetarians and those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich in Fiber: The addition of vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and spinach adds fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Bajo en Calorías: Besan is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it an ideal dish for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
- Gluten-Free: Since besan is made from chickpeas, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Good for Heart Health: El la fibra, las grasas saludablesy low glycemic index of besan can contribute to better heart health and blood sugar control.
Besan Chilla Pairing Suggestions
Mientras Besan Chilla is delicious on its own, you can elevate your meal by pairing it with other dishes. Here are some great pairing ideas:
- Shimla Mirch Sabji: This bell pepper stir-fry complements the flavors of Besan Chilla. The sweetness of the peppers balances the savory nature of the chilla.
- Sri Lankan Chickpea Curry: For those who enjoy a spicy and rich curry, this Sri Lankan-style curry made with chickpeas is a perfect accompaniment. The mild heat of the curry pairs beautifully with the mild and savory chilla.
- Ministry of Curry: This popular blog provides several Indian curry recipes that can accompany your Besan Chilla. For example, a Curry Indian recipe como Aloo Gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) can be a comforting side dish.
- Tomato Omelette: If you’re craving an extra dose of protein, try pairing your Besan Chilla with a Tomato Omelette. This dish combines eggs with tomatoes and spices to create a delicious, filling breakfast.
Conclusión
El Besan Chilla is a delightful, easy-to-make recipe that brings together the flavors of besan, vegetables, and spices to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast or as a light snack, this dish is versatile, healthy, and bursting with flavor. You can experiment with different vegetable combinations, spices, and herbs to make it uniquely yours.
With its rich protein content, fiber, and gluten-free nature, Besan Chilla is not just a tasty dish but also a healthy choice for anyone looking to eat better. Its versatility makes it perfect for various meal occasions, from breakfast to lunch and even as a snack. Serve it with a variety of chutneys, curries, or other sides, and you’ll have a meal that everyone in your family will love.
Give this Besan Cheela recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful, wholesome meal that nourishes your body and satisfies your taste buds!
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