In the vibrant world of Indian cuisine, one ingredient stands out for its versatility and nutritional benefits—gram flour, or besan. This humble flour, derived from ground chickpeas, is not only a staple in many traditional dishes but also a star ingredient for several mouth-watering recipes. Let's dive into the delightful universe of besan with five simple yet scrumptious recipes that you can easily whip up at home.
The Art of Making Besan Chilla
Originating from North India, besan chilla or gram flour pancake is a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack option. Here's how you can make it:
- Mix 1 cup of besan, a pinch of salt, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and a teaspoon of turmeric in a bowl.
- Gradually add water to make a smooth, lump-free batter, similar to pancake batter consistency.
- Heat a non-stick skillet, lightly grease it with oil, and pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot skillet, spreading it in a circular motion.
- Cook until the edges lift from the pan, then flip the chilla to cook the other side until golden brown.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup.
🍴 Note: You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh cilantro and a hint of asafoetida (hing) to the batter.
Crispy Onion Bhajiyas
Bhajiyas or pakoras are beloved Indian fritters, perfect for rainy days or as an appetizer during festive occasions. Here's how to make crispy onion bhajiyas:
- In a bowl, combine 1 cup of besan, 1 large sliced onion, a pinch of salt, red chili powder, and cumin seeds.
- Add water gradually to form a thick batter; you should be able to coat the onions well.
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until the bhajiyas are golden and crisp.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with green chutney.
The Soft and Silky Besan Laddu
For those with a sweet tooth, besan laddus are an irresistible treat. Here's how to make them:
- Roast 2 cups of besan in a heavy-bottomed pan on low heat until it turns golden and aromatic.
- Allow to cool slightly, then mix with melted ghee, powdered sugar, and a pinch of cardamom powder.
- Once the mixture cools enough to handle, shape into small round balls (laddus).
- Enjoy these sweet delights or store in an airtight container.
Simple Besan Cheela with a Twist
For a protein-packed meal, try this variation of besan cheela:
- Follow the besan chilla recipe but add grated paneer or crumbled tofu, making the pancake more filling and nutritious.
- Cook as directed before, ensuring the filling is well-distributed within the batter.
- Fold or roll the cheela upon serving, perhaps with a side of yogurt for a complete meal.
🍳 Note: Adding spinach or methi leaves can give your cheela an earthy flavor and a vibrant green color.
Quick Besan Kadhi
Kadhi, a yogurt-based curry thickened with besan, is a traditional comfort food. Here's an easy recipe:
- Whisk together 2 cups of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of besan, and 2 cups of water in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Temper with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and a few curry leaves in hot oil, then add the yogurt mixture.
- Stir in turmeric, salt, and chili powder. Simmer until the kadhi thickens, adjusting the consistency with water if necessary.
- Serve with plain steamed rice or roti.
🌾 Note: For a richer flavor, you can temper the kadhi with ginger, garlic, and a whole dried red chili.
By exploring these five delightful besan recipes, you’ll not only diversify your culinary skills but also enjoy the taste of Indian flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a savory snack, or a sweet treat, besan has a recipe for every craving. Enjoy your culinary adventure with these simple yet flavourful dishes, and let besan bring a touch of tradition to your home kitchen.
What makes besan a healthy option?
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Besan, or gram flour, is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium, making it a healthier alternative to traditional flours.
Can I substitute besan in other recipes?
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Yes, you can use besan to thicken soups, make crepes, bind patties or even as a coating for frying. Its high protein content helps in binding and creates a unique texture.
How do I store besan to retain its freshness?
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Store besan in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing it, especially in humid climates.
