Are you ready to spice up your cooking routine with some delicious and unique Indian recipes? Look no further! Besan, a type of gram flour made from ground chickpeas, is a staple ingredient in many Indian dishes. From sweet treats to savory snacks, besan adds a nutty flavor and satisfying texture to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering besan recipes that will take your taste buds on a culinary journey around India. From breakfast pancakes to rich desserts, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. So, let’s dive in and start cooking!
Besan Chilla Breakfast Pancakes
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast using besan (gram flour) as the base ingredient. These Besan Chillas are a popular North Indian breakfast option that’s easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Brush the pan with ghee or oil.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a circular shape.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
7. Flip the chilla and cook for another minute.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Spicy Besan Kadhi Curry
A flavorful and spicy curry made with gram flour (besan), onions, tomatoes, and a blend of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add besan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and water. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Ladoo Sweet Bites
Besan ladoo sweet bites are a popular Indian dessert made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion and can be easily prepared at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and cook, stirring continuously, until it turns light golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and add the powdered sugar and cardamom powder. Mix well.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Shape into small balls or ladoos. If desired, roll in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Crunchy Besan Sev Snack
This recipe makes a deliciously crunchy snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking effort, you’ll be enjoying these tasty besan sev in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gram flour (besan)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
– Optional: flavorings like garlic, chili flakes, or carom seeds
Instructions:
1. Mix besan and baking soda in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until the besan sev are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Sprinkle salt to taste and add any desired flavorings.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Puda Flatbread
A classic Indian flatbread from the Gujarat region, Besan Puda is a simple and delicious accompaniment to your favorite curries or stews. This recipe yields a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for sopping up flavorful sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the besan mixture, stirring with a spoon until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
6. Brush the flatbread with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Healthy Besan Cheela Wrap
A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with the goodness of besan (gram flour) and a blend of spices, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons lukewarm water
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray, for greasing
– Filling ingredients (choose one or more): mashed avocado, shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, crumbled paneer, or sliced vegetables of your choice
– Whole wheat tortilla or wrap
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, cumin seeds, asafoetida, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired wrap size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Brush with cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray.
6. Place your chosen filling in the center of the besan cheela.
7. Fold the edges to form a neat wrap.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat, until the besan is lightly browned and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Halwa Rich Dessert
A classic Indian dessert made with chickpea flour, ghee, and nuts, Besan Halwa is a creamy, sweet treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields a rich and indulgent dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1/4 cup milk powder
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns light golden brown.
3. Gradually add the milk powder, sugar, and water to the pan, whisking continuously.
4. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cardamom powder and chopped nuts.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Besan Pakora Fritters
Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these Besan Pakora Fritters are a delicious and addictive Indian snack. Made with gram flour, spices, and yogurt, they’re perfect for a quick afternoon treat or as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– Chopped cilantro or coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, lukewarm water, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the besan mixture into the oil, about 5-6 at a time.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oil and place on absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt and garnish with chopped cilantro or coriander leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Dhokla Steamed Snack
Besan Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. This steamed treat is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon green chili paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– Vegetable oil or ghee for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix besan with water to form a smooth batter.
2. Add baking soda, lemon juice, green chili paste, and salt. Mix well.
3. Stir in the yogurt until fully incorporated.
4. Grease a steamer plate or idli mold with oil or ghee.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared plate or mold.
6. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until the dhokla is crispy on the outside and soft inside.
7. Serve warm with your favorite chutney or tea.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Roti Gluten-Free Bread
Besan Roti, a popular Indian flatbread, is now gluten-free! This recipe uses besan (gram flour) to create a delicious and crispy bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine besan and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the besan mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
6. Brush the surface with ghee or oil.
7. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds or until bubbles appear and the edges start to curl.
8. Flip and cook for another 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Enjoy your gluten-free Besan Roti with your favorite toppings or fillings!
Besan Burfi Sweet Squares
Experience the rich flavors of India with this traditional Besan Burfi recipe, a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon milk
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, ghee or oil, sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron-milk mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and forms a dough-like consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Grease a square-shaped pan or plate with ghee or oil.
5. Pour the besan mixture into the prepared pan and smooth out evenly.
6. Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm to touch.
7. Cut into squares and garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Besan Tikki Savory Patties
These crispy and flavorful patties are a popular snack in India, made with gram flour (besan) and a blend of spices. Perfect for a quick bite or as an accompaniment to your favorite chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Lemon juice, for binding (optional)
– Oil or butter, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, mashed potatoes, onion, green chili, cumin seeds, and coriander powder.
2. Add salt to taste and lemon juice if needed to bind the mixture.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat oil or butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
6. Fry patties until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
7. Drain excess oil and serve hot with your favorite chutney.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Khandvi Rolled Snack
In this recipe, we’ll make a popular Gujarati snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Besan khandvi is a flavorful rolled snack made with gram flour, spices, and yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, water, salt, and baking soda until smooth.
2. Add lemon juice and yogurt to the mixture and stir well.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Drop small portions of the mixture into the oil and fry until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes).
5. Remove from oil and let cool slightly.
6. Roll each piece into a cylindrical shape using your hands or a rolling pin.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Besan Khandvi rolled snack!
Besan Sheera Sweet Pudding
A traditional Indian dessert made with chickpea flour, ghee, and jaggery, Besan Sheera is a sweet and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1 cup jaggery powder (or grated jaggery)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns light brown.
3. Add the jaggery powder and stir well.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Add the cardamom powder and mix well.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts and dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Besan Gatta Curry Spicy Dish
This authentic Indian recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional besan gatta, with the addition of spicy curry powder and aromatic spices. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix besan and water until smooth paste forms.
2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour besan mixture into the pan, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Papdi Crispy Crackers
A flavorful and crunchy snack made with besan (chickpea flour) and papdi leaves, perfect for munching on the go. These crispy crackers are a popular Indian treat that pairs well with tea or as a side to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Papdi leaves (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan and lukewarm water until a smooth batter forms.
2. Add lemon juice and salt to the batter and stir well.
3. If using papdi leaves, chop them finely and add to the batter.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, forming small circles or squares.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the crackers are golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the crackers.
Besan Methi Thepla Flatbread
Thepla is a popular Gujarati flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, flavored with the earthy goodness of fenugreek leaves (methi). This besan-based recipe combines the nutty flavor of gram flour with the subtle bitterness of methi to create a delicious snack or accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh methi leaves
– Optional: garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Mix besan and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
6. Brush the edges with ghee or oil and sprinkle methi leaves on top.
7. Fold the flatbread in half to form a triangle or a square shape.
8. Cook the thepla on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Besan Masala Omelette
A flavorful twist on traditional omelettes, this Besan Masala Omelette is a popular Indian breakfast dish that combines the nutty taste of besan (gram flour) with aromatic spices and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and besan until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Pour in the egg-besan mixture and cook until the edges start to set.
4. Add chopped onion, diced tomato, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Fold the omelette in half and cook for another minute or until the cheese is melted (optional).
6. Serve hot with your favorite bread or roti.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Besan, also known as gram flour, is a staple ingredient in many Indian recipes. In this article, we’ve compiled 18 delicious besan recipes that every foodie should try. From sweet treats like Besan Ladoo and Besan Burfi to savory dishes like Besan Kadhi Curry and Besan Tikki Patties, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique breakfast options like Besan Chilla Pancakes and healthy snacks like Crunchy Besan Sev. Explore the world of besan-based desserts with Besan Halwa and sweet treats like Besan Sheera Pudding. This article is a must-read for anyone looking to add some excitement to their cooking repertoire.
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