Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) Recipe

If you’ve never experienced the joy of Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes), get ready to fall in love with this colorful, crispy, and deeply satisfying Indian classic. These quick pancakes are a delicious staple— packing in finely chopped veggies, warming spices, and the earthy nuttiness of gram flour for a breakfast, snack, or light meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. They’re naturally gluten-free, endlessly adaptable, and incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to in any busy or lazy kitchen alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) is how the simplest ingredients blend to make something so craveable. Each component brings a unique flair: from vibrant vegetables for crunch and color to the pungency of fresh ginger and spices that make every bite pop.

• Besan (gram flour): The heart of the dish; provides nutty flavor, tender texture, and natural protein.
• Onion (finely chopped): Adds slight sweetness and a bit of bite for essential texture.
• Tomato (finely chopped): Brings juiciness and a fresh burst of acidity.
• Green bell pepper (finely chopped): Offers crunch and a mellow vegetal note that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
• Ginger (grated): Gives zing and warmth—fresh ginger makes all the difference!
• Green chillies (finely chopped): Customize the heat to your liking for an extra kick.
• Turmeric powder: For golden color and earthy undertones that pair perfectly with besan.
• Kashmiri red chilli powder: Bright and mild, it’s more about vibrant color than wild heat.
• Ajwain (carom seeds): Traditional flavor that aids digestion and adds a subtle herby note.
• Asafoetida (hing): Optional but recommended for its umami depth.
• Salt: Essential to bring everything into balance—taste as you go.
• Cilantro (finely chopped): Fresh herbal lift and a hit of color.
• Water: Adjust to get a smooth, pourable batter—preferably filtered or boiled.
• Oil for cooking: Any neutral oil works; helps crisp up those chillas gorgeously.

How to Make Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes)

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by gathering your gram flour, turmeric, Kashmiri red chilli powder, ajwain, hing, and salt in a mixing bowl. If your besan is a bit clumpy, take a moment to sift it—it ensures a lump-free, silky batter later. Whisk all the dry ingredients together so the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Add Water to Form a Batter

Pour in the water gradually, about half a cup at a time, whisking as you go. Aim for a smooth, pourable batter—thicker than crepe batter but not at all doughy. This step is important for the final Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) texture: no lumps allowed! Adjust the amount of water as needed; you’ll likely use close to a cup.

Step 3: Stir in Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients

Now, in go the finely chopped onions, tomato, bell pepper, cilantro, ginger, and green chillies. Mix well so every spoonful of batter is studded with bursts of color, aroma, and freshness. If the batter thickens up due to the veggies soaking up moisture, just add a splash more water until it’s right back to a pourable consistency.

Step 4: Cook the Chillas to Golden Perfection

Heat your favorite non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, brush or drizzle a little oil on the surface, then pour in a ladleful of batter. Quickly spread it out in a circle, aiming for even thickness throughout. Drizzle a bit more oil around and on top, cover, and let it cook for about 1–2 minutes or until the surface looks set. Flip gently, press down, and cook the other side until you spot those beautiful golden patches that signal it’s done.

Step 5: Repeat and Serve

Transfer your Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter. Between chillas, wipe your pan with a damp towel to cool it slightly—this helps the next one cook evenly without browning too fast. Stack them up and prepare to enjoy while hot!

How to Serve Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes)

Garnishes

To really set your Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) apart, try scattering extra chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of chaat masala right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top adds brightness, and even a little grated coconut can take them to another level.

Side Dishes

Chilla loves company! The absolute classic is a tangy green chutney—coriander-mint works beautifully—or a dollop of cooling yogurt. Tomato ketchup provides a sweet counterpoint if you’re feeling nostalgic. And let’s not forget a cup of steaming chai on the side; pure bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your pancakes into wedges and set them atop a salad for a wholesome lunch, or roll them up around a savory filling (think paneer or sautéed mushrooms) for an inventive party appetizer. For a fun twist, make mini chillas and serve them as finger food with assorted dips. The versatility of Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) makes them a showstopper on any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes), simply let them cool to room temperature, then layer between parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to 2 days without losing much of their lovely texture.

Freezing

To make chilla ahead for meal prep or busy mornings, freeze them—layering with wax paper—inside a zippered bag. When ready to eat, pull out what you need; they’ll keep well for up to a month. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) in a skillet over low heat until warmed through (they’ll crisp up again nicely). If you’re in a hurry, microwave on a plate covered with a damp paper towel for 20–30 seconds, but just know the texture may be slightly softer.

FAQs

Can I add other vegetables to the batter?

Absolutely! Grated carrots, spinach, shredded zucchini, or even sweet corn work well. Just be sure to chop or grate everything finely and adjust the water a bit if using watery veggies.

Is Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) gluten-free?

Yes, since besan (gram flour) is made from chickpeas, these flavorful pancakes are naturally gluten-free. As always, check your other ingredient labels if you’re highly sensitive.

How can I make the chillas extra crispy?

For chillas with that irresistible crispy edge, use a little more oil when cooking and spread the batter thinly. Cooking on medium-high heat (not scorching) achieves the best crunch.

What can I substitute for ajwain or asafoetida?

If you don’t have ajwain, you can skip it or use a tiny pinch of crushed fennel or cumin seeds for a rounded flavor. Asafoetida is optional; omitting it won’t hurt the overall taste at all.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the batter and keep it in the fridge for 4–6 hours (just wait to add salt and baking powder, if using, until ready to cook). Stir well before using, as besan tends to thicken as it sits.

Final Thoughts

Besan Chilla (Savory Gram Flour Pancakes) are one of those rare recipes that win hearts at first bite—simple, quick, endlessly variable, and totally moreish. I hope you give these a try in your kitchen soon and discover how effortless it is to make a meal that’s healthy, vibrant, and packed with real flavor. Happy chilla making!

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