When it comes to Indian cooking, besan – also known as chickpea flour – is a staple ingredient that’s often overlooked. But not today! In this article, we’re going to explore 20 mouthwatering besan recipes that will take your culinary skills to the next level. From sweet treats like Besan Laddu and Besan Coconut Ladoo, to savory dishes like Besan Chilla and Besan Kadhi, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or an impressive dessert to impress your guests, besan is the perfect ingredient to have on hand. And with its nutty flavor and versatility, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular choice among Indian home cooks. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary journey!
Besan Chilla (Savory Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
A popular Indian snack or breakfast option, Besan Chilla is a flavorful and nutritious treat made with chickpea flour, spices, and herbs. These savory pancakes are perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup water
– Vegetable oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and lemon juice to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour a small amount of batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a pancake.
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.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Besan Laddu (Sweet Chickpea Flour Balls)
These sweet and nutty laddus are a popular Indian treat, perfect for snacking or as a dessert. Made with chickpea flour, jaggery, and nuts, they’re easy to make and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup grated jaggery or sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds or cashews)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, ghee or oil, and jaggery or sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Add cardamom powder and salt; mix again.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
6. Roll each ball in chopped nuts to coat.
7. Serve or store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None (these laddus are not cooked, just mixed and shaped)
Enjoy your delicious Besan Laddu!
Besan Ka Halwa (Chickpea Flour Pudding)
A classic North Indian dessert, Besan Ka Halwa is a creamy and sweet pudding made with chickpea flour, nuts, and spices. This comforting treat is perfect for special occasions or as a cozy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped almonds and pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is lightly toasted.
3. Gradually add the milk, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Besan Ki Barfi (Chickpea Flour Fudge)
Besan ki barfi, a classic Indian sweet treat, is made with chickpea flour (besan) and is perfect for those who love fudge-like desserts. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations and is now easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sugar and melted ghee/butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and stir well to combine.
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns light brown.
4. Remove from heat and add cardamom powder, saffron, and its water. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased plate or tray. Let it cool and set at room temperature.
6. Once set, cut into desired shapes and serve. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Cheela with Spicy Chutney
Get ready to start your day with a flavorful and crunchy besan cheela (chickpea flour pancake) served with a spicy and tangy chutney. This popular Indian breakfast dish is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
For the Besan Cheela:
– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water as needed
For the Spicy Chutney:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/2 cup green chilies, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon garlic paste
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Mix besan, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the batter is smooth.
3. Gradually add water to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. To make chutney, combine all ingredients in a blender or bowl and mix well.
Cooking Time:
– Besan Cheela: 4-5 minutes per batch
– Chutney: 2-3 minutes
Besan Dhokla (Steamed Chickpea Flour Cake)
Besan Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack or breakfast option that’s easy to make and packed with nutrition. This steamed cake is made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices, giving it a unique flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon Eno fruit salt
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan and baking soda.
2. Add yogurt, Eno fruit salt, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 6-inch aluminum steamer or a microwave-safe dish with multiple layers.
5. Steam for 15-20 minutes or cook in microwave for 8-10 minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (steaming) or 8-10 minutes (microwaving)
Besan Kadhi (Chickpea Flour Yogurt Curry)
Besan Kadhi is a popular Gujarati dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side to your favorite Indian flatbreads. This creamy chickpea flour yogurt curry is flavored with aromatic spices and served with steaming hot rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together besan and water until smooth.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the besan mixture and stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
6. Stir in the yogurt and spices (cumin, coriander, salt). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with steaming rice or rotis.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Puda (Spiced Chickpea Flour Crepes)
A popular North Indian snack or breakfast option, Besan Puda is a delicate and flavorful crepe made with chickpea flour, spices, and water. This recipe yields soft, slightly sweet, and aromatic crepes perfect for dunking in tea or serving with chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
– Ghee or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, baking powder, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, garam masala, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease the pan with a small amount of ghee or oil.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of crepes)
Besan Roti (Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
This classic Indian flatbread is a staple in many households, made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort. Besan roti is perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes or serving as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ghee or oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the besan mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to roll out.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the roti for 30-45 seconds on each side, until it’s golden brown and slightly puffed up.
8. Brush with ghee or oil, serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per roti
Besan Sev (Crispy Chickpea Flour Noodles)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Sev is a crunchy and flavorful delight that’s easy to make at home. These crispy chickpea flour noodles are perfect for snacking or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a long, thin noodle.
4. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the noodles in batches until they are crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Pakora (Chickpea Flour Fritters)
A classic Indian snack, Besan Pakora is a crispy and flavorful treat made with chickpea flour, spices, and herbs. This simple recipe yields a deliciously addictive snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine besan, baking powder, salt, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and chili powder (if using). Mix well.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Heat oil or ghee in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and place on absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Besan Khandvi (Chickpea Flour Rolls)
A popular Gujarati snack, Besan Khandvi is a flavorful and textured treat made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. These crispy rolls are perfect for a quick bite or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, lukewarm water, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the vegetable oil and mix well.
3. Gradually add the yogurt and mix until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour a small amount of the batter onto the pan and spread evenly to form a thin circle.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
7. Loosen with a spatula and roll into a tight cylinder.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the number of rolls)
Besan Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
This traditional Indian flatbread is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrition. Besan Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Chickpea Flour Flatbread) is a popular snack in many Gujarati households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons methi leaves (fenugreek leaves), chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine besan, methi leaves, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead well for about 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook the theplas for 30-40 seconds on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Brush with ghee or oil to add an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Besan Methi Thepla with a cup of chai or as a snack anytime!
Besan Gatte Ki Sabzi (Chickpea Flour Dumplings in Gravy)
This classic North Indian dish is a staple at many Punjabi celebrations and gatherings. Besan gatte ki sabzi is a flavorful and nutritious curry made with chickpea flour dumplings cooked in a rich, aromatic gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ghee or oil
– For the gravy:
+ 2 medium onions, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon ginger paste
+ 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
+ 1 teaspoon coriander powder
+ 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
+ Salt, to taste
+ 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix besan with water and baking soda to form a smooth dough.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a cylindrical dumpling (gatte).
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and fry the gattes until lightly browned.
4. For the gravy, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger paste in oil until the onions are translucent.
5. Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add water or broth and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
8. Add fried gattes to the gravy and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Besan Papdi (Chickpea Flour Crackers)
A traditional Indian snack, Besan Papdi is a crispy and flavorful cracker made with chickpea flour, water, and spices. Perfect for serving with tea or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 3 tablespoons lukewarm water
– Optional: cumin seeds, coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine besan, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the ghee or oil and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. The consistency should be slightly thicker than regular dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a thin circle or square.
6. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
7. Place a few crackers in the pan and cook for 30 seconds on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Besan Moong Dal Chilla (Chickpea and Mung Bean Pancakes)
A flavorful and nutritious Indian snack, Besan Moong Dal Chilla is a perfect blend of chickpea flour, mung bean paste, and spices. These crispy pancakes are a delightful treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup moong dal paste
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Optional: chutney or raita for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, moong dal paste, onion, green chili, and cumin seeds.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. Serve hot with chutney or raita, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Pinni (Chickpea Flour Energy Balls)
Besan pinni, also known as chickpea flour energy balls, is a popular Indian snack that provides a quick and natural energy boost. Made with simple ingredients, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and require no cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, ghee or oil, powdered sugar, and salt.
2. Mix until a dough forms. Add lemon juice and mix well.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready to be enjoyed immediately.
Besan Masala Puri (Spiced Chickpea Flour Snack)
In this recipe, we’ll make a flavorful and crunchy snack using besan (chickpea flour) and aromatic spices. Besan masala puri is a popular Indian street food that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine besan, baking soda, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and amchur powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch diameter).
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Fry the puris in hot ghee or oil until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Besan Aloo Tikki (Chickpea Flour Potato Patties)
Enjoy the delightful combination of chickpea flour, mashed potatoes, and aromatic spices with Besan Aloo Tikki. This popular North Indian snack is easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 large boiled potatoes, peeled and mashed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, mashed potatoes, onion, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry patties until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain and serve hot with your favorite chutney or a dollop of yogurt.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Besan Coconut Ladoo (Chickpea Flour Coconut Balls)
This classic Indian sweet treat combines the nuttiness of chickpea flour (besan) with the richness of coconut, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy these delicious besan coconut ladoo in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Mix besan and sugar in a bowl.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter and mix until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
3. Add grated coconut, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Shape each ball into a smooth ladoo (ball).
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None! These ladoo are ready to be enjoyed straight away.
Summary
Discover the versatility of besan (chickpea flour) with these 20 mouth-watering recipes. From sweet treats like Besan Laddu and Besan Coconut Ladoo to savory dishes like Besan Chilla pancakes and Besan Kadhi curry, there’s something for every occasion. Also included are crispy snacks like Besan Sev noodles and Besan Papdi crackers, as well as comforting flatbreads like Besan Roti and Besan Methi Thepla. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an innovative dessert, these besan recipes are sure to impress.
