Besan Chilla or Besan Cheela is an easy and healthy Indian savory pancake recipe made from besan (gram flour), onion, tomato, spices, and herbs.

Recipe Snapshot

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup besan (gram flour)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carrom seeds)
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup tomato (finely chopped)
  • 1 green chili (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
  • 2 tablespoons coriander leaves
  • salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup water (or as needed)
  • oil (to cook chillas)

Method

  1. In a mixing bowl, add the besan, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, grated ginger, coriander leaves, ajwain seeds, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add water and whisk until you get a smooth, lump-free, and pouring consistency batter.
  3. Heat a seasoned iron tawa or non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease some oil on the skillet.
  4. Once the skillet is hot, pour a ladleful of batter in the center and quickly spread it evenly in a circular motion to form a thin and round cheela. Drizzle some oil (or ghee) around the edges of the chilla.
  5. Cook the chilla for about 1-2 minutes or until the base turns light golden. Flip it using a spatula and cook the other side until you see golden spots.
  6. Serve hot or warm with chutney of your choice or tomato ketchup and tea.

Kiyaan Singh’s Kitchen Note

Keep this recipe as a working base: cook once as written, then adjust spice, texture, and serving style for your own table.