Quick and Healthy Besan Chilla

Besan chilla (Besan Cheela) is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a simple, healthy recipe. This savory pancake made with gram flour is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can be enjoyed any time of the day. If you are looking for a healthy and light summer breakfast, Besan Chilla is perfect choice, offering not only great taste but also energy to keep you going throughout the day.

Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a light snack, or a satisfying lunch, this Healthy Besan Chilla recipe will leave you feeling full and energized. Let me walk you through this easy-to-make dish!

What is Besan Chilla?

Before I share the recipe, let’s briefly talk about what besan actually is. Gram flour is made from ground chickpeas and is commonly used in many Indian dishes. A chilla is similar to a savory pancake made from gram flour, mixed with spices and veggies. It’s a versatile dish that you can easily customize by adding your favorite vegetables to make it even healthier.

I first tried this dish as a quick breakfast option, and it’s now one of my go-to meals. It’s light, full of protein, and naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Why I Love Besan Chilla for a Healthy Meal

You may be wondering, “What makes healthy besan chilla a great option?” Here are some reasons I choose this recipe over others:

1. Packed with Protein: Besan is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegetarians. Protein supports muscle repair, keeps you full, and provides lasting energy.
2. Naturally Gluten-Free: Since Besan is gluten-free, I don’t have to worry about gluten sensitivity. This makes Besan chilla a great option for people with celiac disease or those avoiding gluten.
3. High in Fiber: One of the best things about besan chilla is its fiber content. Fiber aids digestion, keeps cholesterol in check, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Plus, it keeps me feeling full for longer.
4. Packed with Essential Nutrients: Besan contains vitamins and minerals like folate, magnesium, and iron, all of which contribute to better overall health and more energy throughout the day.

For a nutrition information panel for Healthy Besan Chilla, click here.

Ingredients for this Healthy Recipe

I love how simple the ingredients are. Here’s what you’ll need:

The great thing about this recipe is that you can adjust it based on what you like. Sometimes, I add bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients, and it always turns out great.

How to Make Healthy Recipe

Making it is simple. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of Besan, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and salt.

Slowly add water while stirring continuously, making sure there are no lumps. The batter should have a smooth, pourable consistency, much like that of pancake batter.

Once the batter is ready, add the chopped onions, tomatoes, grated carrots, and fresh coriander leaves (if using). Mix everything well.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a non-stick skillet or tawa on medium heat to warm it up. Once it’s hot, add a teaspoon of oil and spread it evenly across the surface.

The oil helps achieve a crispy texture, but feel free to use less if you prefer.

Step 3: Cook the Chilla

Pour a ladle of batter onto the pan, spreading it into a round shape, like you would for a pancake.

Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. When the edges turn golden brown and the surface begins to set, it’s time to flip.

Flip the chilla carefully and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden and crispy.

Be careful not to overcook it, just enough to get a crisp texture without drying it out.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your dish is ready, serve it hot with chutney, yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s perfect for any time of day.

Tips for Perfect Besan Chilla

To make sure your healthy Besan chilla turns out just right, here are a few tips I’ve picked up over time:

• Consistency is Key: The batter should be smooth but not too thick. If it’s too thick, the chilla might not cook evenly. Add just enough water until it has a pancake batter-like consistency.

• Use a Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick pan ensures the chilla cooks evenly and crisps up nicely without sticking.

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the chilla can make it dry. Keep an eye on it, and make sure it stays soft inside while crispy outside.

• Add More Veggies: Experiment with adding different veggies to the batter, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. These additions increase the flavor and nutritional value.

• Cook on Medium Heat: Medium heat allows the chilla to cook evenly, getting crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.

Fun Variations of Besan Chilla to Try

I love trying different twists on the traditional healthy Besan chilla recipe. Here are some fun variations:

1. Spinach Besan Chilla

Add finely chopped spinach to the batter for a nutrient-packed boost of iron and vitamins.

2. Moong Dal Besan Chilla

Mix Besan with soaked moong dal (green gram) for extra protein. It adds a unique texture and makes the chilla more filling.

3. Cheese Besan Chilla

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheese on top of the batter while cooking. The melted cheese adds creaminess and extra flavor.

4. Oats Besan Chilla

Add ground oats to the batter for an added fiber boost. It helps keep you full longer and adds a nutty flavor to the chilla.

Why Healthy Besan Chilla is a Great Meal Option?

Not only is Besan chilla quick and easy, but it also comes with many health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: The high protein content from Besan helps with muscle recovery and provides lasting energy.

• High in Fiber: Fiber promotes healthy digestion, helps control cholesterol, and aids in weight management.

• Packed with Nutrients: Besan is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like folate, magnesium, and iron, contributing to better health.

• Ideal for Weight Control: The combination of protein and fiber makes besan chilla a great meal for managing hunger and supporting weight loss.

Conclusion:

Quick, Healthy, and Delicious Besan Chilla

Whenever I need a quick and healthy recipe, this one always does the trick. It’s a versatile, nutrient-dense dish that’s easy to customize with different veggies and spices. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or something hearty, this dish is always a great choice.

Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go to meals too .

I love how quick and healthy Besan Chilla is . What’s your favorite way to make it? Share your tips and variations in the comments below I’d love to know.