Savory Besan Chilla | Indian Breakfast Recipe
The aroma of sizzling spices and fresh herbs wafting from the kitchen is a surefire way to get my family’s attention, and that’s exactly what happens with my Savory Besan Chilla.
I remember making these chillas on a lazy Sunday morning, with my grandmother, in our cozy kitchen in Mumbai, using fresh cilantro from our backyard.
It was during one of those Sunday mornings that I realized how much I loved the combination of the crispy exterior and the fluffy interior of these chillas. This Savory Besan Chilla | Breakfast Recipes Indian quickly became a cherished family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Besan Chilla | Breakfast Recipes Indian
- The perfect blend of crunchy and soft textures.
- Packed with a burst of flavors from spices and herbs.
- Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Foolproof recipe with easy-to-follow steps.
- Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup gram flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves

The star ingredients of this recipe are besan, which provides a lovely nutty flavor, and the fresh herbs, which add a wonderful freshness to the dish.
Expert Tips for the Best Savory Besan Chilla | Breakfast Recipes Indian
- Critical technique: make sure to whisk the besan mixture well to avoid lumps.
- Common mistake: overmixing the batter, which can make the chillas dense.
- Pro upgrade: add some grated veggies like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Doneness cue: cook until the chillas are golden brown and crispy.
- Make-ahead tip: prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
Variations and Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free besan. For a protein boost, add some chopped veggies or paneer. For a bold flavor twist, add some chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers.

How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover chillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan with a little oil until crispy. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and reheat straight from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make besan chilla without besan?
While besan is a crucial ingredient, you can try substituting it with gram flour or chickpea flour.
How do I prevent the chillas from becoming too dense?
Make sure to whisk the batter well and don’t overmix it.
Can I serve besan chilla with a side?
Yes, serve with a side of chutney, raita, or a salad for a complete meal.
I hope you enjoy making and devouring these delicious Savory Besan Chillas as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need any variations.
Savory Besan Chilla
🧂 Ingredients
👩🍳 Instructions
-
1In a large bowl, whisk together the gram flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
-
2Add the chopped onion, tomato, and green chili to the bowl and mix well.
-
3Gradually add water to the bowl and mix until a smooth batter is formed.
-
4Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
-
5Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a circle.
-
6Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
-
7Loosen the chilla with a spatula and flip it over.
-
8Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the other side is lightly browned.
-
9Repeat with the remaining batter to make more chillas.
-
10Serve the Savory Besan Chilla hot garnished with chopped fresh coriander leaves.

