When it comes to Indian cooking, chickpea flour or besan is a staple ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From savory snacks to sweet treats, besan adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture to whatever you’re making. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious besan recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special treat, these recipes are sure to impress. From classic dishes like Besan Chilla and Besan Ka Halwa, to unique twists like Besan Sev and Besan Papdi, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of besan and explore all the different ways you can use it in your cooking. So grab a spoon and let’s get started!
Besan Chilla (Savory Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
A popular street food in India, besan chillas are crispy and savory pancakes made with chickpea flour, perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro, onions, and green chilies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, water, salt, and cumin seeds to form a thick batter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the skillet and spread it evenly to form a thin circle.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
5. Flip the chilla and cook for another minute, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of butter or a sprinkle of cilantro, onions, and green chilies (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Besan Laddu (Sweet Chickpea Flour Balls)
A popular Indian sweet treat, Besan Laddu is a delightful combination of chickpea flour, sugar, and nuts. This recipe makes 12-15 laddus, perfect for serving at parties or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds and pistachios
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Stir in chopped nuts and cardamom powder.
4. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry laddus until they float to the surface (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Ka Halwa (Chickpea Flour Pudding)
A classic Indian dessert, Besan Ka Halwa is a creamy and comforting pudding made with chickpea flour, milk, and nuts. This traditional recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the besan and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns light golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the halwa thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and cardamom powder.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Ki Barfi (Chickpea Flour Fudge)
A traditional Indian sweet treat made with chickpea flour, sugar, and nuts, Besan Ki Barfi is a perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet cravings. This fudge-like confectionery is easy to make and can be served at room temperature or after refrigeration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter) or oil
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Grease a plate with ghee or oil and keep it ready.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, sugar, and salt. Mix well until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the chopped nuts and cardamom powder (if using) to the mixture and mix again.
4. Heat 1/4 cup of ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour the besan mixture into the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Shape the mixture into a square or rectangle shape on the prepared plate.
8. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Cheela with Spicy Mint Chutney
A popular Indian breakfast or snack option, Besan Cheela is a crispy and flavorful flatbread made from chickpea flour. Paired with a refreshing and spicy mint chutney, this combination is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the Besan Cheela:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon green chili paste
– Salt to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix besan, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour a ladle of batter and spread evenly to form a circle.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl. Flip and cook for another minute.
4. To make the chutney, blend all ingredients together with some water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Serve the Besan Cheela warm with a dollop of Spicy Mint Chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Kadhi (Chickpea Flour Yogurt Curry)
A creamy and comforting curry made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and a blend of spices, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable 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. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, yogurt, and water until smooth.
5. Add the spice mixture to the saucepan and stir well.
6. Pour in the chickpea flour mixture and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the curry thickens.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Puda (Spiced Chickpea Flour Dosa)
Besan puda, a popular South Indian dish, is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast option. This recipe uses chickpea flour as the main ingredient, mixed with spices and herbs to create a delicious and crispy dosa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (optional)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro and onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, water, salt, baking soda, and asafoetida (if using). Whisk until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Pour a small amount of the batter onto the skillet and spread evenly to form a thin circle.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
5. Brush with ghee or oil and flip. Cook for another minute or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with garnishes of chopped cilantro, onions, and your choice of chutney.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes per batch
Besan Ka Sheera (Chickpea Flour Sweet Porridge)
A traditional Indian dessert, Besan Ka Sheera is a comforting and sweet porridge made with chickpea flour, ghee, and nuts. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine besan and milk. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add sugar, ghee, cardamom powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the porridge has reached desired consistency.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Dhokla (Steamed Chickpea Flour Cake)
A traditional Gujarati dish, Besan Dhokla is a steamed cake made with chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. This soft and spongy treat is often served as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon Eno fruit salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan, yogurt, and baking soda until smooth.
2. Add the Eno fruit salt, grated ginger, and salt. Mix well.
3. Grease a steamer basket or a 6-inch cake pan with oil.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
5. Steam the dhokla for 15-20 minutes, or until it rises and is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Roti (Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
Besan roti, a popular flatbread from Indian cuisine, is made with chickpea flour (besan) and water. This simple recipe yields soft and flavorful rotis that pair well with a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The consistency should be similar to that of cookie dough.
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. Brush with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side, until the roti is golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 minutes per roti
Besan Pakora (Chickpea Flour Fritters)
A popular Indian snack or appetizer, Besan Pakora is a flavorful and crunchy treat made with chickpea flour, spices, and herbs. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy these crispy fritters in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, baking powder, salt, and red chili powder (if using).
2. Gradually add in the water and lemon juice 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 oil to form fritters.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Drain on paper towels and garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves.
7. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or tea.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Sev (Crispy Chickpea Flour Noodles)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Sev is a crunchy and flavorful treat made with chickpea flour, water, and spices. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy these crispy noodles at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: garlic, cumin seeds, or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into thin noodles.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add the noodles in batches to fry until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Besan Khandvi (Chickpea Flour Rolls with Coconut)
Besan Khandvi is a popular Gujarati snack that combines the nutty flavor of chickpea flour with the richness of coconut. These crispy rolls are perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Indian meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, coconut, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a dough. Knead well until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into an oval shape.
5. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to fry the khandvi. Fry until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Pinni (Chickpea Flour Energy Bites)
These wholesome energy bites are made with chickpea flour (besan), perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack. The combination of besan, nuts, and seeds provides a delightful texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: dried fruits or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, oats, and nuts.
2. Add honey and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Stir in pumpkin seeds and salt.
4. If desired, add dried fruits or chocolate chips and mix well.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Enjoy your Besan Pinni energy bites within 3-5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Besan Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
The Besan Methi Thepla is a popular Gujarati flatbread that combines the nutty flavor of chickpea flour with the earthy taste of fenugreek leaves. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 cup methi leaves (fenugreek), chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, methi leaves, cumin seeds, and coriander powder.
2. Add salt and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Cook the thepla for 30 seconds on each side, until it is lightly browned and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per thepla
Besan Papdi (Chickpea Flour Crackers)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Papdi is a crispy and flavorful cracker made with chickpea flour, perfect for munching on its own or serving with your favorite chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the ghee or oil, mixing until the dough comes together.
3. Add water as needed to form a smooth, pliable dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is soft and easy to roll out.
5. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Cook the papdi for 30-40 seconds on each side, until they are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of papdi)
Besan Malpua (Chickpea Flour Sweet Pancakes)
These sweet and crispy pancakes are a popular Indian dessert, made with chickpea flour, jaggery, and spices. Perfect for a warm evening treat or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup jaggery powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, jaggery powder, baking soda, and cardamom powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan with ghee or oil over medium heat.
4. Using a ladle, pour a small amount of batter into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cardamom powder.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Besan Gatte Ki Sabzi (Chickpea Flour Dumplings in Curry)
This popular Indian dish is a flavorful and comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Besan gatte ki sabzi consists of chickpea flour dumplings cooked in a rich and spicy curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons lukewarm water
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix besan with lukewarm water to form a thick paste.
2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the besan mixture, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Mix well.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Chakli (Spiral Chickpea Flour Snacks)
A classic Indian snack made with chickpea flour, these spiral-shaped Besan Chakli are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect for a quick bite or as a accompaniment to your favorite cup of tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine besan, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the ghee or oil to form a dough.
3. Add water as needed to achieve a pliable dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin rope.
7. Coil the rope into a spiral shape and press gently to seal.
8. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
9. Fry the Besan Chakli for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Moong Dal Cheela (Chickpea and Mung Bean Pancakes)
This popular North Indian dish is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or snack option, made with chickpea flour, mung bean paste, and spices. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup moong dal paste
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, moong dal paste, baking soda, salt, cumin seeds, and coriander powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and brush with ghee or oil.
4. Pour a ladle of the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with chutney or yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 4-6 cheelas.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of besan recipes! With over 20 delicious and varied options, this article takes you on a culinary journey through India. From savory pancakes like Besan Chilla to sweet treats like Besan Laddu, and from fritters to flatbreads, there’s something for every occasion. Discover how chickpea flour can be transformed into crispy snacks, fluffy dosas, and creamy curries. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new recipe ideas, this collection of besan recipes is sure to inspire your next meal.
