When it comes to Indian cooking, besan flour (also known as gram flour) is a staple ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. From traditional Gujarati snacks like dhokla and pakora to popular desserts like laddu and barfi, besan flour adds a nutty flavor and coarse texture that’s hard to replicate with other flours. But besan flour is not just limited to Indian cuisine – it can be used in a range of international dishes, from Middle Eastern-style flatbreads to African-inspired stews.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious besan flour recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From breakfast options like besan chilla and besan puda to sweet treats like besan halwa and besan laddu, these recipes showcase the versatility of besan flour and its ability to add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes.
Besan Chilla (Savory Chickpea Pancakes)
Get ready to satisfy your hunger with this easy-to-make and delicious snack! Besan Chilla, also known as savory chickpea pancakes, is a popular Indian recipe that combines the nutty flavor of gram flour with spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gram flour (besan)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro, onions, and chilies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, water, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush with ghee or oil.
3. Pour in the batter and spread evenly to form a pancake shape.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
5. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, onions, and chilies if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch (depending on the size of the pancakes)
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Besan Chilla!
Besan Laddu (Sweet Chickpea Flour Balls)
Besan laddu is a popular Indian sweet treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or as a dessert. This recipe uses chickpea flour, sugar, and ghee to create crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside balls of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions, depending on how large you want your laddus to be.
4. Shape each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These laddus are ready to devour as soon as they’re shaped.
Besan Ka Halwa (Chickpea Flour Pudding)
Besan Ka Halwa is a rich and creamy pudding made with chickpea flour, milk, and ghee. This traditional Indian dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups milk
– 4 tablespoons ghee
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the milk in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chickpea flour and whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and add the ghee, cardamom powder, and sugar. Mix well.
5. Let it cool to room temperature before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Cheela with Spicy Mint Chutney
A popular Indian street food, Besan Cheela is a delicious, crispy pancake made with gram flour and spices. Serve it with a refreshing Spicy Mint Chutney for a perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients:
For the Besan Cheela:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 3/4 cup water
For the Spicy Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1-2 green chilies, depending on desired spiciness
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together besan, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add oil and water to the besan mixture. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in 1/4 cup of the batter.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl. Flip and cook for another minute.
5. For the chutney, blend all ingredients except water in a blender until smooth.
6. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including preparation)
Enjoy your crispy Besan Cheela with Spicy Mint Chutney!
Besan Barfi (Chickpea Flour Fudge)
A classic Indian sweet treat, Besan Barfi is a delightful fusion of chickpea flour, sugar, and nuts. This easy-to-make recipe yields a crunchy and chewy fudge that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Grease a 9×9-inch pan with ghee and keep aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, powdered sugar, almonds, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add the ghee and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Press the dough into the prepared pan and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Besan Kadhi (Chickpea Flour Yogurt Curry)
A creamy and comforting Indian curry made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices, perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan and water until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium 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. Add yogurt, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric powder, and salt to the besan mixture. Whisk until smooth.
5. Cook over low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the curry thickens to your liking.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Puda (Spicy Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
Besan puda, a popular Indian street food, is a flavorful and spicy pancake made with chickpea flour, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. This recipe is a perfect combination of crispy outside and soft inside, served hot with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together besan and water until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 1 second.
4. Pour the besan mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle chopped onion, garlic, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt on top of the puda.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the base is golden brown.
7. Flip the puda and cook for another 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
8. Serve hot with butter or chutney.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Besan Roti (Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
A traditional Indian flatbread, Besan Roti is a delicious and easy-to-make snack or accompaniment to your favorite curries. Made with chickpea flour, water, and a pinch of salt, this crispy and slightly sweet flatbread is a staple in many North Indian households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the besan and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water 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 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Dhokla (Steamed Chickpea Flour Cake)
A traditional Gujarati recipe, Besan Dhokla is a flavorful and healthy steamed cake made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. This moist and slightly tangy cake is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, yogurt, baking soda, salt, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add lemon juice and mix again.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Grease a 6-inch steel or ceramic dish with oil.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish.
6. Steam the cake over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until it rises and is firm to the touch.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Pakora (Chickpea Flour Fritters)
Besan pakora, also known as chickpea flour fritters, is a popular Indian snack that is easy to make and packed with flavor. These crispy fritters are perfect for munching on while watching a movie or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, water, salt, and baking soda until smooth.
2. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Sheera (Chickpea Flour Sweet Porridge)
Besan Sheera, a popular Indian sweet porridge, is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of the year. Made with chickpea flour, ghee, and nuts, this traditional dessert is a staple in many Indian households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns lightly golden.
3. Gradually add the sugar and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sheera thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Khandvi (Chickpea Flour Rolls with Coconut)
Besan Khandvi (Chickpea Flour Rolls with Coconut)
A classic Gujarati snack, Besan Khandvi is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the nutty flavor of chickpea flour with the richness of coconut. These soft, pliable rolls are perfect for a quick bite or as a snack to share.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Water, as needed
- Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Mix besan, coconut, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Add water gradually to form a soft dough. Knead until smooth.
- Divide the dough into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
- Fry the khandvi in hot ghee or oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time:
About 15-20 minutes total, including preparation and frying time.
Besan Sabzi (Chickpea Flour Stir-Fry)
A flavorful and nutritious Indian dish made with chickpea flour, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add besan, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Gradually add water and stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sabzi reaches your desired consistency.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Puri (Deep-Fried Chickpea Flour Bread)
Besan Puri is a popular street food in India, made by frying chickpea flour dough into crispy, flavorful bread. This recipe yields soft and puffy puris with a delicious crunchy exterior.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, salt, and baking soda.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring with a spoon until it forms a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes pliable and soft.
4. Divide the dough into small portions, shaping each into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into thin circles, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
7. Fry the puris for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they puff up and turn golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Chutney (Spicy Chickpea Flour Dip)
This spicy Besan Chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine, made with chickpea flour, chilies, and aromatic spices. Perfect for accompanying snacks or as a side dish to enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. Dry roast the besan in a pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
2. In a blender, combine roasted besan, chopped onion, green chilies, ginger, cumin powder, salt, and lemon juice. Blend into a smooth paste with some water.
3. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over low heat. Add the blended mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chutney thickens to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Ladoo with Nuts and Raisins
Besan ladoo is a popular Indian sweet treat made from gram flour, and by adding nuts and raisins, we’ve elevated it to a whole new level of deliciousness. These bite-sized goodies are perfect for snack time or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and roast until fragrant, stirring frequently.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the chopped nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and salt to the besan mixture.
5. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
6. Shape into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Paratha (Stuffed Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
This Besan Paratha recipe is a creative spin on traditional flatbreads, incorporating the nutty flavor of chickpea flour (besan) and a flavorful potato-stuffed center. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
+ 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
+ 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
+ Salt to taste
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix besan and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of the potato filling in the center.
6. Fold and seal the edges to form a triangle or a ball shape.
7. Heat ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook parathas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Besan Sev (Crunchy Chickpea Flour Noodles)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Sev is a delightful treat that combines the crunch of fried noodles with the nutty flavor of chickpea flour. This recipe makes a batch of flavorful and addictive Besan Sev perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture to form a thick dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
5. Cut the sheets into long, thin noodles (sev).
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the sev noodles in batches until golden brown and crispy, flipping occasionally.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Halwa with Cardamom and Saffron
This traditional Indian dessert, besan halwa, gets a boost of flavor and aroma from the addition of cardamom and saffron. A perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the besan flour and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water, add cardamom powder, saffron mixture, ghee, and salt. Mix well.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the besan is cooked and the mixture thickens (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Besan Dosa (Chickpea Flour Crepes)
Besan dosa is a popular South Indian dish made from chickpea flour, water, and spices. This crispy and flavorful crepe is typically served with sambar (lentil-based vegetable stew) and chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan and water to form a smooth batter.
2. Add baking soda and salt; stir well to combine.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Brush the skillet with oil or ghee.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet and spread evenly.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with sambar and chutney.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch (depending on the number of dosas)
Summary
Discover the versatility of besan flour with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion. From savory chickpea pancakes to sweet chickpea flour balls, and from spicy chickpea flour noodles to creamy chickpea flour pudding, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a comforting snack, or a special dessert, besan flour is the perfect ingredient to get creative with. Explore these innovative recipes and unlock the world of Indian cuisine’s hidden gems!
