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Spinach Besan Chilla Recipe

4.8 from 108 reviews

Spinach Besan Chilla is a savory Indian pancake made with chickpea flour (besan) and fresh spinach, flavored with aromatic spices and herbs. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for breakfast or a light meal, combining protein-rich besan with nutrient-packed spinach for a delicious and nutritious treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Besan Batter

  • 1 cup besan (gram flour)
  • 3/4 cup water (for initial batter)
  • 1/4 cup water (to adjust consistency)
  • 1/2 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
  • 1 tsp dhaniya powder (coriander powder)
  • 1/4 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/4 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1/2 inch ginger, chopped
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped

For Cooking

  • 1 tsp oil per chilla (divided: 1/2 tsp on tawa, 1/4 tsp around chilla, 1/4 tsp on top)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine besan and 3/4 cup water, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Add chopped ginger, green chilies, ajwain, coriander powder, red chili powder, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Incorporate chopped spinach and finely chopped onions, blending until smooth. Adjust batter consistency if needed by adding up to 1/4 cup more water.
  2. Cook the Chilla: Heat a tawa (cast-iron pan) over low to medium heat until hot. Drizzle 1/2 teaspoon oil on the tawa. Pour about 1/4 cup batter onto the tawa and gently spread into a thin circle. Drizzle 1/4 teaspoon oil around the edges of the chilla. When bubbles start forming on the surface, drizzle 1/4 teaspoon oil on top. Carefully flip the chilla and cook for about 2 minutes on the other side. Flip again briefly to finish cooking, then remove from the stove.

Notes

  • Use a non-stick or cast-iron tawa for best results to prevent sticking.
  • Adjust green chilies according to your heat preference.
  • Besan batter consistency should be pourable but not too runny; add water gradually.
  • You can add finely chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for variation.
  • Serve hot with green chutney or yogurt for a complete meal.

Keywords: Spinach Besan Chilla, Indian Pancake, Besan Recipe, Healthy Breakfast, Savory Pancake, Chickpea Flour Recipe