What is chilla-cheela
Chilla (or cheela) is an Indian savory pancake made from gram flour (besan) and spices, popular as a quick, nutritious breakfast or snack. Often enjoyed in North India, it’s known for being high in protein and is easy to prepare. Here are some popular variations:
- Besan Chilla: The classic version, made with gram flour, water, chopped onions, green chilies, and spices like cumin and turmeric. The batter is poured on a hot pan and cooked until golden brown on both sides.
- Moong Dal Chilla: Made with soaked and ground moong dal (split green gram), creating a light, fluffy pancake rich in protein. It often includes chopped veggies for added flavor.
- Oats Chilla: Made with ground oats, this variation is healthier and ideal for those seeking a high-fiber option.
Chillas are typically served with yogurt or green chutney and can be enjoyed as a healthy breakfast or evening snack.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Besan Chilla at home. Follow these steps to prepare delicious, fluffy chillas:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1-2 finely chopped green chilies (optional, for spice)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
- Salt to taste
- Water (as required, approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup)
- Oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup besan (gram flour).
- Add 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, and salt as per your taste.
- Mix everything dry first, then slowly start adding water while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. You’ll need around 1/2 to 3/4 cup of water, depending on the consistency.
- Whisk the batter until smooth and lump-free. It should be of medium thickness – not too thick or too thin.
- Add Vegetables
- Now, add finely chopped onions, green chilies, tomatoes, and coriander leaves to the batter.
- Mix well. The batter should be thick enough to hold the veggies but thin enough to spread on the pan.
- Heat the Pan
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan on medium heat. Let it get hot, then reduce the heat slightly.
- Add a few drops of oil and spread it with a spatula or a tissue.
- Pour and Spread the Batter
- Take a ladleful of the besan batter and pour it onto the pan.
- Gently spread the batter in a circular motion, moving outward to make a thin pancake.
- Cook the Chilla
- Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges and on top of the chilla.
- Let it cook on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges turn golden and start lifting up.
- Flip the chilla carefully using a spatula and cook on the other side until golden brown.
- Serve
- Once both sides are cooked and golden, transfer the chilla to a plate.
- Repeat the process for the remaining batter.
Delicious green chutney to pair with your Besan Chilla. This chutney is fresh, tangy, and complements the flavors of chilla perfectly!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional, for extra freshness)
- 1-2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 small clove garlic (optional)
- 1/2 inch ginger
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1-2 tsp lemon juice (for tanginess)
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients
- Wash the coriander and mint leaves thoroughly.
- Roughly chop the green chilies, garlic, and ginger to make blending easier.
- Blend the Chutney
- In a blender or food processor, add coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, and salt.
- Add a splash of water and blend into a smooth paste. You can add more water if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Add Lemon Juice
- Once the chutney is smooth, add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Blend again for a few seconds.
- Taste and Adjust
- Taste the chutney and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Besan Chilla hot with green chutney, yogurt, or ketchup. Enjoy this healthy, protein-rich snack for breakfast or as a quick meal!