Are you looking for a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes? Look no further than besan, also known as chickpea flour. This ancient Indian staple has been used for centuries to create a wide variety of delicious treats, from crispy snacks to hearty meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different besan recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic desserts like Besan Laddu (sweet chickpea flour balls) and Besan Ka Halwa (chickpea flour pudding), to savory dishes like Besan Kadhi (chickpea flour yogurt curry) and Besan Puda (spicy chickpea flour pancakes), we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or something spicy, besan is an ingredient that can be used in a multitude of ways.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most delicious besan recipes out there, from traditional Indian dishes to modern twists and creations. So let’s get started!
Besan Chilla (Savory Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
A popular Indian snack or breakfast option, Besan Chillas are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, flavored with aromatic spices. This simple recipe is a great way to incorporate protein-rich chickpeas into your diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, water, onion, green chili, and cumin seeds. The mixture should be thick but still pourable.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet and spread it evenly to form a circular pancake.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
5. Flip the chilla and cook for another minute.
6. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Besan Laddu (Sweet Chickpea Flour Balls)
Besan Laddu is a popular sweet treat in Indian cuisine, made with chickpea flour, sugar, and ghee. This recipe yields soft, chewy balls that are perfect for snacking or as an offering to guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the melted ghee to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
3. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. If desired, roll each ball in chopped nuts for added crunch.
6. Serve the Besan Laddu immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Besan Ka Halwa (Chickpea Flour Pudding)
Besan Ka Halwa is a traditional Indian dessert that’s both rich and comforting. This creamy pudding made with chickpea flour, milk, and nuts is a popular treat during special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios work well)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the milk in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth pudding.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the ghee or butter, cardamom powder, saffron, and chopped nuts.
5. If desired, add sugar to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Ki Barfi (Chickpea Flour Fudge)
A popular Indian dessert, Besan Ki Barfi is a sweet and nutty fudge made with chickpea flour (besan), nuts, and dried fruits. This rich and creamy treat is perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios)
– 1/4 cup dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Grease a rectangular plate or tray with ghee.
2. In a large pan, combine besan, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add chopped nuts, dried fruits, and cardamom powder to the pan. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared plate or tray. Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Besan Cheela with Spinach
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional besan cheelas, these spinach-stuffed flatbreads are a perfect snack or light meal. Made with chickpea flour, spinach, and spices, they’re easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Add spinach leaves and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour a ladle of batter and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on the number of cheelas you make.
Besan Dhokla (Steamed Chickpea Flour Cake)
A popular breakfast or snack item in Gujarat, Besan Dhokla is a delicious and healthy steamed cake made from chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida
– Salt, to taste
– Water, for steaming
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, yogurt, baking soda, and asafoetida. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add salt to taste and mix again.
3. Grease a steamer basket or a metal colander with oil.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared basket or colander.
5. Steam the dhokla for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Kadhi (Chickpea Flour Yogurt Curry)
This popular Gujarati dish is a flavorful and comforting curry made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. Perfect for a warm evening or as a side dish to pair with rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan and water until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the besan mixture to the pan, whisking continuously.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in yogurt and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Puda (Spicy Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
In this recipe, we’ll explore the flavors of India with Besan Puda, a spicy and savory pancake made with chickpea flour. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these pancakes are sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired spiciness)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan, water, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes on top of the pancake.
5. Fold the pancake in half to distribute the toppings evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the pancake is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of raita (yogurt sauce) or chutney.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per pancake
Besan Ka Sheera (Chickpea Flour Sweet Porridge)
This traditional Indian dessert, also known as Chickpea Flour Sweet Porridge, is a popular treat during special occasions like Diwali and other festive celebrations. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a delightful ending to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine besan and water. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture has thickened to your liking.
3. Add ghee or oil, sugar, and cardamom powder (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Papdi (Crispy Chickpea Flour Crackers)
Crisp and flavorful Besan Papdi (Chickpea Flour Crackers) are a popular Indian snack that pairs well with tea, chutneys, or as a side dish. This simple recipe yields a batch of delicious papdis with a delicate crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, baking powder, salt, and cumin seeds.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture to form a soft dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a walnut).
4. Roll out each portion into thin circles (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook papdis for 30 seconds on each side, until they turn golden brown and crisp.
7. Repeat with remaining dough.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Roti (Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
Besan Roti, also known as Chickpea Flour Flatbread, is a popular Indian flatbread that’s easy to make and packed with nutrition. This recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal cooking time to produce a delicious and crispy roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
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 roti with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until bubbles form and the edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 minutes per roti
Besan Pakora (Chickpea Flour Fritters)
A classic Indian snack, Besan Pakoras are crispy fritters made with chickpea flour (besan) and spices. These flavorful treats are perfect for a quick evening bite or as an accompaniment to your favorite tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
– Chopped cilantro or onion, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, baking powder, salt, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Shape each portion into a patty or a thin circle.
5. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the pakoras for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or tea.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Sev (Chickpea Flour Noodles)
A popular Gujarati snack, Besan Sev is a crispy and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed as a munchie or paired with a variety of dishes. This recipe yields a batch of tender and crunchy chickpea flour noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the besan and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water to form a dough. Knead the mixture until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 4-5 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
4. Cut the sheets into long strips, approximately 1/2 inch wide.
5. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to deep-fry the noodles. When hot, add the noodles and fry until they puff up and turn golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove the fried noodles from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Khandvi (Chickpea Flour Rolls)
A traditional Gujarati snack, Besan Khandvi is a delightful combination of crunchy and soft textures. These chickpea flour rolls are perfect for a quick bite or as an accompaniment to your favorite tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Optional: chopped cilantro, green chilies, or grated coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the besan mixture and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
4. Pour a small amount of the besan batter into the hot oil and shape into cylindrical rolls.
5. Repeat with the remaining batter, adjusting the size as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with your choice of herbs or spices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
This traditional Indian flatbread is a flavorful and nutritious treat, perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite curry. Made with the goodness of chickpea flour (besan) and fenugreek leaves (methi), this thepla is a delicious way to incorporate the benefits of these superfoods into your daily routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 cup methi leaves, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, methi leaves, baking powder, and cumin seeds.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough, kneading until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30 seconds.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 15-20 seconds.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side
Besan Moong Dal Chilla (Chickpea and Mung Bean Pancakes)
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pancakes! This recipe combines the goodness of chickpea flour (besan) and mung bean paste (moong dal) to create crispy, savory chillas that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup moong dal paste
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, moong dal paste, baking powder, salt, and cumin seeds.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of the batter to form a chilla.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip and cook for another minute.
4. Repeat with remaining batter.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of chillas)
Besan Coconut Ladoo
A classic Indian sweet treat, Besan Coconut Ladoo is a delicious and easy-to-make confectionery made with gram flour, coconut, and nuts. This recipe yields a batch of soft, chewy, and flavorful ladoos that are perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, grated coconut, and melted ghee or butter.
2. Mix well until the ingredients form a smooth dough.
3. Add cardamom powder and salt to the dough. Mix until combined.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball (ladoo).
6. If using nuts, roll each ladoo in chopped nuts to coat.
7. Store the ladoos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Masala Toast
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic toast by combining crispy bread with the savory goodness of besan (gram flour) and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of besan (gram flour)
– 1 tablespoon of ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon of coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until crispy.
2. In a small pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
3. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10-15 seconds.
4. Mix in the besan and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
5. Add the coriander powder and salt; stir well.
6. Spread the besan masala mixture evenly onto the toasted bread slices.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Stuffed Paratha
A popular North Indian snack, Besan Stuffed Paratha is a flavorful flatbread filled with a savory chickpea flour mixture. Perfect for a quick lunch or evening snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– For the filling:
+ 1/2 cup besan (chickpea flour)
+ 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
+ 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and ghee/oil in a bowl.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place 1 tablespoon of besan filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
7. Cook on a non-stick skillet or tava for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Pinni (Chickpea Flour Energy Balls)
A traditional Gujarati recipe, Besan Pinni is a nutritious snack made with chickpea flour, perfect for a quick energy boost. These bite-sized balls are also known as ‘energy pinnis’ due to their high nutritional value.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup jaggery powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine besan, jaggery powder, salt, and cardamom powder.
2. Add the ghee or oil and mix until the mixture forms a dough.
3. Gradually add the water and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Refrigerate the pinnis for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 20-25 Besan Pinni
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of besan, also known as chickpea flour! This versatile ingredient has been used in Indian cuisine for centuries, and we’ve got 20 delicious recipes to prove its versatility. From sweet treats like Besan Laddu and Besan Coconut Ladoo, to savory dishes like Besan Chilla and Besan Kadhi, there’s something for every occasion. Plus, discover creative twists on classic recipes like Besan Cheela with Spinach and Besan Methi Thepla. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these besan recipes are sure to become new favorites!
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