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Besan Chilla Recipe

Besan Chilla Recipe offered to Krishna.

Hare Krishna Chilla is a delightful and nourishing dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This chilla combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, finely chopped
  • 1 small carrot, grated (optional)
  • 1/4 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
  • Oil or ghee for cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

  1. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, asafoetida, green chili, chopped tomato, grated carrot (if using), chopped spinach (if using), and salt. Gradually add water to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The batter should be of pouring consistency.
  2. Rest the Batter:
    • Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Chillas:

  1. Heat the Pan:
    • Heat a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat. Lightly grease it with oil or ghee.
  2. Pour the Batter:
    • Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot pan and spread it out in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
  3. Cook Until Golden:
    • Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges and cook until the chilla turns golden brown on one side. Flip and cook the other side for a few minutes.
  4. Serve Hot:
    • Serve the chillas hot with chutney, ketchup, or yogurt.

Notes

  • Variation: Add finely chopped cabbage, grated zucchini, or other vegetables to the batter for added flavor and texture.
  • Storage: Chillas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the batter in the refrigerator for up to a day and cook fresh chillas as needed.

Nutrition