Besan Chilla is a savoury, protein-rich pancake made from gram flour (besan) batter, seasoned with onion, tomato and spices. Often called a 'vegetarian omelette', it's a quick, no-fermentation breakfast that's popular for its simplicity and nutrition.
Besan Chilla at a Glance
| Cuisine | North Indian |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Meal | Breakfast |
| Course | Main / Breakfast |
| Food Type | Vegan |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 15 minutes |
| Total time | About 35 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Suggested serving | 2 chillas |
Besan Chilla Ingredients
- 1 cup besan (gram flour); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 small tomato, finely chopped; 1 green chilli, finely chopped; 1/4 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp red chilli powder; 1/4 tsp ajwain (carom seeds); 2 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped; salt to taste; water as needed; oil for cooking.
How to Make Besan Chilla
- In a bowl, whisk besan with water gradually to form a smooth, lump-free batter of pourable consistency, similar to pancake batter.
- Add turmeric, red chilli powder, ajwain and salt; whisk again.
- Rest the batter for 10 minutes.
- Stir in chopped onion, tomato, green chilli and coriander leaves.
- Heat a tawa on medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Pour a ladle of batter and spread into a thin, even circle.
- Drizzle a little oil around the edges and cook until the base turns golden and the top looks set.
- Flip and cook the other side until golden with light brown spots.
- Serve hot with chutney or ketchup.
Cooking Tips
Whisk the batter well to remove lumps for an even chilla. Rest the batter briefly to let the flour hydrate fully. Cook on medium heat — too high a heat browns the outside before the inside sets.
Variations
Add grated paneer or crumbled tofu to the batter for extra protein. Make a stuffed version with a light vegetable filling folded inside. Add grated carrot or finely chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
Substitutions
Replace ajwain with cumin seeds if unavailable. Adjust water quantity for a thinner or thicker chilla based on preference.
What to Serve With Besan Chilla
Mint chutney, tomato ketchup, or a side of curd.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Best eaten fresh. Batter (without vegetables mixed in) can be refrigerated for up to a day.
Reheating: Reheat briefly on a hot tawa for 20-30 seconds per side.
Besan Chilla Nutrition Facts
Nutrition varies with exact ingredients, oil quantity and serving size. Approximate values per serving:
| Calories | 190 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
Values are estimates for planning purposes and should be treated as approximate.
Potential Nutritional Benefits
A fully plant-based, gluten-free breakfast option that is naturally high in protein and fibre compared to many other quick breakfasts.
Age & Serving Guidance
Can be offered to toddlers from around 10-12 months in soft pieces with reduced chilli and salt.
For young children, take particular care with hot food, spice level, piece size, known allergies and individual chewing/swallowing ability.
Allergens & Food Safety
Allergens: Made from chickpea flour (legume); naturally gluten-free. Check for cross-contamination if strict gluten-free diet is required.
Ensure the batter is well-cooked through and not left raw in the centre; cook on medium heat for even cooking.
Besan Chilla FAQs
Why is my besan chilla not crisp?
A batter that's too thick, or a tawa that isn't hot enough, are the usual causes; thin the batter slightly and preheat the tawa well.
Can I make besan chilla without onion and tomato?
Yes, a plain version with just spices works too and cooks a little faster.
Is besan chilla vegan?
Yes, it's naturally vegan when made without any dairy-based toppings.
Why is it called a 'vegetarian omelette'?
Its shape, texture, and savoury flavour resemble an omelette, making it a popular egg-free alternative.
Can I add cheese to besan chilla?
Yes, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top while cooking melts in nicely for extra richness.
How do I avoid lumps in the batter?
Add water gradually while whisking continuously, rather than all at once.
Is besan chilla good for weight loss?
It's protein and fibre-rich with moderate calories, making it a popular choice among those managing their weight.
Can I store the batter overnight?
Plain besan batter (without vegetables mixed in) can be refrigerated overnight; add vegetables just before cooking.
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