Are you tired of the same old recipes and looking for a culinary adventure? Look no further! Besan, also known as gram flour or chickpea flour, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet treats to savory snacks. With its nutty flavor and high protein content, besan is an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a satisfying snack, or a show-stopping dessert, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 22 delicious besan recipes.
From classic dishes like besan chilla (gram flour pancakes) and besan ladoo (sweet chickpea flour balls), to innovative creations like besan puda (savoury pancakes with herbs) and besan masala toast (spiced chickpea flour coating), we’ve rounded up the best of the best to inspire your next culinary endeavour. So, which recipe will you try first?
Besan Chilla (Gram Flour Pancakes)
A popular Indian breakfast or snack option, Besan Chillas are crispy, savory pancakes made with gram flour, spices, and vegetables. Perfect for a quick morning meal or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 green chili, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan and lukewarm water until smooth.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced tomato, minced green chili, and cumin seeds. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Brush with ghee or oil.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the besan mixture into the pan. Spread evenly to form a pancake shape.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
6. Flip and cook for another minute, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on the number of pancakes you make.
Besan Ladoo (Sweet Chickpea Flour Balls)
A traditional Indian sweet treat, Besan Ladoo is a delightful combination of chickpea flour and sugar, rolled into bite-sized balls that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 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 and ghee or oil. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
2. Add sugar, cardamom powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to the mixture to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
5. Serve Besan Ladoos warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake treat.
Besan Ka Halwa (Gram Flour Pudding)
A popular Indian dessert, Besan Ka Halwa is a rich and creamy pudding made with gram flour, milk, and ghee. This traditional recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits (optional)
Instructions:
1. Roast the besan in a pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns light brown.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted besan with milk, ghee, sugar, and salt. Mix well to avoid lumps.
3. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruits, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Burfi (Chickpea Flour Fudge)
A traditional Indian sweet treat made with chickpea flour, sugar, and nuts, Besan Burfi is a perfect dessert for any occasion. This recipe yields a deliciously rich and fudgy confection that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios work well)
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Combine besan and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter and mix until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
3. Stir in the chopped nuts and rose water (if using).
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
5. Shape into small patties or bars.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Besan Burfi is a no-bake treat that’s ready in just a few steps.
Besan Kadhi (Gram Flour Yogurt Curry)
A creamy and comforting curry made with gram flour, yogurt, and spices, Besan Kadhi is a popular Gujarati dish that’s perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re lightly browned.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Mix in the besan and stir well to combine.
5. Gradually add the yogurt, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Stir well.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Roti (Chickpea Flour Flatbread)
A classic Indian flatbread, Besan Roti is a staple in many North Indian households. Made with chickpea flour, water, and a touch of ghee, this crispy and nutty flatbread pairs perfectly with a variety of curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan and baking soda.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
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 tava over medium heat.
7. Place a flatbread in the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds on each side, until it starts to puff up and crisp around the edges.
8. Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Besan Cheela with Spiced Filling
A classic Indian street food, Besan Cheela is a crispy, savory pancake made from gram flour and spices, often served with a flavorful filling. This recipe combines the perfect blend of textures and tastes to create a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– For the spiced filling:
+ 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ 1 teaspoon grated ginger
+ 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter and spread evenly.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl. Flip and cook for another minute.
5. For the filling, heat the ghee or oil in a small pan. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cumin seeds. Cook until the onions are translucent.
6. Serve the Besan Cheela with the spiced filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Puda (Savoury Pancakes with Herbs)
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional pancakes! These besan pudas are packed with the goodness of chickpea flour, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cilantro and mint leaves for garnish
– Optional: 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together besan and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
3. Add salt to taste and mix well.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another minute.
8. Serve warm with chopped cilantro and mint leaves, and optional ghee or oil drizzle.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Besan Dhokla (Steamed Gram Flour Snack)
A popular Gujarati snack, Besan Dhokla is a delicious and healthy treat that’s easy to make. This recipe yields soft, spongy dhoklas with a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gram flour
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon green chili paste (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the gram flour, yogurt, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the green chili paste, if using, and mix well.
3. Grease a steamer basket or a metal strainer with oil.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared steamer basket, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the dhoklas are cooked through and fluffy.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Besan Sev (Crispy Gram Flour Noodles)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Sev is a delightful treat that’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe yields a flavorful and addictive gram flour noodle that pairs well with a cup of chai or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, salt, and baking soda.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into long noodles.
5. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the noodles in batches until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Papdi (Crunchy Chickpea Flour Crackers)
A popular Indian snack, Besan Papdi are crunchy, flavorful crackers made with chickpea flour and spices. Perfect for munching on their own or serving alongside your favorite chutney or soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, baking powder, and salt.
3. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into thin circles, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush the tops with vegetable oil and sprinkle with lemon juice.
6. Place the papdi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Gatta Curry (Gram Flour Dumplings in Gravy)
A traditional Indian recipe from the state of Gujarat, Besan Gatta Curry is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines crispy gram flour dumplings with a rich and spicy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup 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
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Gravy:
+ 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
+ 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
+ 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix besan and water to form a thick batter.
2. Heat oil in a pan and drop small spoonfuls of the batter to fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
3. In another pan, heat butter or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add pureed tomatoes, salt, and fried gram flour dumplings to the pan. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the gravy thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Besan Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Flatbread)
A traditional Indian flatbread from the state of Gujarat, Besan Methi Thepla is a flavorful and nutritious snack that combines the goodness of fenugreek leaves with besan (gram flour). Perfect for a quick breakfast or as a tea-time accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup fresh methi leaves, chopped
– 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, chopped methi leaves, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough, kneading until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook thepla for 30 seconds on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per thepla
Besan Chutney (Spicy Gram Flour Dip)
This flavorful chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine, perfect for accompanying snacks like samosas or chaat items. With its spicy and tangy flavor profile, it’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Lemon juice or vinegar, as needed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a pan, dry roast the besan over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add water, chopped onion, garlic, ginger paste, cumin seeds, and red chili powder. Mix well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
4. Season with salt as needed.
5. If desired, add lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Besan Paniyaram (Crispy Dumplings)
Paniyaram is a popular South Indian snack made from fermented batter of rice and lentils, but this recipe takes it to the next level by adding a crispy besan coating. These crunchy dumplings are perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gram flour (besan)
– 1/2 cup paniyaram batter (rice and lentil mixture)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chili powder, cumin seeds, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the besan in a non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and crispy.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the paniyaram batter and salt to taste.
3. When the besan is ready, shape small portions of the batter into small balls.
4. Coat each ball with the crispy besan, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the coated dumplings in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Khandvi (Rolled Gram Flour Snacks)
A classic Gujarati snack, Besan Khandvi is a delicious and healthy rolled gram flour snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. These crispy, savory treats are made with minimal ingredients and can be enjoyed as a quick bite or shared with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to that of pancake mix.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour a small amount of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin layer.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
6. Use a spatula to gently roll the khandvi into a cylindrical shape.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of khandvis)
Besan Ki Sabzi (Stir-Fried Chickpea Flour Dish)
A popular North Indian dish, Besan Ki Sabzi is a flavorful and nutritious recipe made with chickpea flour, vegetables, and spices. This simple and quick-to-make sabzi is often served with roti or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger paste. Saute until the mixture is light brown.
4. Add besan and stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the besan starts to leave the sides of the pan.
6. Add diced tomato and salt. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sabzi thickens.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Besan Barfi with Nuts
Besan Barfi with Nuts Recipe
A classic Indian sweet dish, Besan Barfi is a rich and nutty delight that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the nuttiness of nuts with the creamy goodness of besan (gram flour) to create a truly decadent treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1/2 cup ghee or oil
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Pinch of salt
- Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios)
Instructions:
- Mix besan and sugar in a pan. Add ghee or oil and mix until a smooth paste forms.
- Add cardamom powder and salt. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased plate or tray. Smooth out the surface.
- Top with chopped nuts, pressing them gently into the besan mixture.
- Cook over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barfi is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Besan Masala Toast (Spiced Chickpea Flour Coating)
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic and crunchy besan masala toast, perfect for a quick pick-me-up. This Indian-inspired recipe combines the nutty flavor of chickpea flour with warm spices and crispy toasting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder, optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpea flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and amchur powder (if using). Add salt to taste.
3. Gradually add lemon juice and olive oil to the mixture until it forms a thick paste.
4. Toast bread slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Spread a thin layer of besan masala coating on each toast slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the coating.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Besan Bhindi (Okra Coated in Gram Flour)
This classic Indian recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional okra dishes. The gram flour coating adds a delightful crunch to the tender okra, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 250g okra pods
– 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Oil or ghee for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the okra pods and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
3. Coat each okra pod evenly with the gram flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Heat oil or ghee in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the coated okra pods until they turn golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Besan Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish, Besan Stuffed Peppers combines the crunch of roasted peppers with the creamy goodness of besan (chickpea flour) filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together besan, water, onion, garlic, cumin powder, and salt until smooth.
4. Stuff each pepper with the besan mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle cooking oil or butter over the peppers.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Besan Coconut Ladoo
A traditional Indian sweet treat, Besan Coconut Ladoo is a delightful combination of chickpea flour and coconut that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine besan and grated coconut.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and fry the ladoos until they turn golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Summary
Discover the versatility of besan (gram flour) with these 22 delicious and diverse recipes. From savory to sweet, and from snacks to main courses, this collection has something for every occasion. Try making Besan Chilla pancakes or Besan Ladoo sweet treats. Experiment with besan-based flatbreads like Besan Roti or Besan Methi Thepla. Impress your guests with crispy snacks like Besan Sev or Besan Papdi. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special dessert, this article has the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings and showcase the many uses of besan.