Indian · serves 2

Besan Chilla

Batter to plate in fifteen minutes with things you already have.

15 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup besan
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tomato, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ajwain
  • 1 green chilli
  • Oil

Method

  1. Whisk besan with water into a pouring batter — thinner than pancake, thicker than milk. No lumps.
  2. Stir in everything else plus salt. Rest 5 minutes.
  3. Medium-hot tawa, ladle, spread in circles.
  4. Oil around the edges, flip when the top looks dry, 1 more minute.
  5. Green chutney or ketchup, no judgement.

Questions people ask about Besan Chilla

How long does Besan Chilla take?

About 15 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. That is start-to-finish, so it works on a weeknight when you have not planned anything.

What can I use instead of besan in Besan Chilla?

Use chickpea flour is the same thing. At a push, rice flour binds but will not taste the same.

Can I make Besan Chilla ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Besan Chilla vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

What do you serve with Besan Chilla?

Green chutney or ketchup, no judgement. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

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