Chilla, also known as Cheela, is a popular Indian savory pancake that serves as an excellent choice for breakfast or an evening snack. Made primarily from gram flour (besan), this dish is not only easy to prepare but also highly nutritious, making it a perfect meal for those looking to embrace a healthy lifestyle. This blog post will guide you through a simple, delicious Chilla recipe, delve into its cultural significance, and answer common questions about this traditional Indian delicacy.
Ingredients Required
Here’s what you need to create this delightful Chilla:
- 1 cup - Gram Flour (Besan)
- 1⁄2 cup - Water (add more for desired consistency)
- 1⁄4 cup - Finely chopped onions
- 2 tablespoons - Finely chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon - Green chilies, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon - Ginger, finely chopped or grated
- 1⁄4 teaspoon - Turmeric powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon - Red chili powder (optional)
- 1⁄4 teaspoon - Ajwain (Carom seeds)
- As needed - Salt
- 1 tablespoon - Chopped coriander leaves
- Oil/Ghee - For cooking
Preparation Steps
Let’s walk through the steps to make your Chilla:
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the gram flour, turmeric, red chili powder, ajwain, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add water while stirring to avoid lumps, aiming for a smooth, dosa-like batter consistency.
- Once the batter is smooth, incorporate the chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, and coriander leaves into the batter.
🍳 Note: Allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the flour to absorb the flavors.
2. Cooking the Chilla
- Heat a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat. Grease it lightly with oil or ghee.
- Pour a ladle full of batter onto the center of the pan and quickly spread it in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
- Drizzle a few drops of oil or ghee around the edges. Cook until the base turns golden brown, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Flip it over and cook the other side until it achieves a similar golden hue.
3. Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chilla hot with accompaniments like:
- Green Chutney
- Tamarind Chutney
- Mint Yogurt Dip
- Pickle
🍴 Note: Chilla pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of masala chai for the ultimate breakfast experience.
Health Benefits
Chilla is not just a treat to the taste buds but also offers several health benefits:
- High Protein Content: Besan is rich in protein, making Chilla a good choice for muscle repair.
- Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with gluten intolerance or on a gluten-free diet.
- Rich in Nutrients: The vegetables and spices add vitamins and antioxidants.
Variations of Chilla
The base of Chilla can be varied with different flours and ingredients:
| Chilla Type | Main Ingredient | Additional Add-ons |
|---|---|---|
| Methi Chilla | Besan | Fresh Methi (fenugreek) leaves |
| Oats Chilla | Oats | Grated carrots, spinach |
| Mung Dal Chilla | Split Green Gram | Tomatoes, ginger |
🌱 Note: Experimenting with different ingredients can make the Chilla not only varied but also more nutritious.
In summary, the Chilla recipe is a testament to the simplicity and flavor of Indian cuisine. Its versatility makes it an ideal dish for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a healthy snack, this dish offers a balance of nutrition and taste, embodying the essence of comfort food with an Indian twist.
Can I make Chilla without gram flour?
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Yes, Chilla can be made with various flours. You can try using oat flour, wheat flour, or even rice flour for different textures and nutritional benefits.
Is Chilla suitable for a vegan diet?
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Absolutely! Chilla can be made vegan by using water instead of dairy milk and by cooking it in vegetable oil or vegan ghee.
What are the best spices to add for flavor?
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Besides turmeric and chili powder, you can add cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, or even a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for enhanced flavor.
