Garlic Gram Pancakes, also known as Garlic Gram Flour Pancakes or Garlic Besan Chilla, are a popular savory pancake dish in Indian cuisine. They are nutritious, delicious, and easy to prepare. Let’s delve into the details you’ve requested:
What is it:
Garlic Gram Pancakes are savory pancakes made primarily from gram flour (besan), which is a type of flour made from chickpeas. The star ingredient, as the name suggests, is garlic, which adds a wonderful flavor to the pancakes. These pancakes are typically seasoned with various spices and herbs, making them flavorful and aromatic.
History:
The exact origin of Garlic Gram Pancakes is not well-documented, but they are a traditional and popular dish in various parts of India. They are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item and are a part of Indian street food culture.
Components:
Here are the main components you’ll need to make Garlic Gram Pancakes:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Water
- Oil for cooking
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, add the gram flour, minced garlic, chopped onion (if using), green chilies, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
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Gradually Add Water: Gradually add water to the dry ingredients while whisking continuously. The goal is to create a smooth, lump-free batter with a consistency similar to pancake batter. You may need approximately 1 to 1.5 cups of water.
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Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the gram flour to absorb the water and results in a better texture.
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Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a few drops of oil to grease it.
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Pour and Cook: Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the hot skillet and spread it gently to form a thin pancake. You can make them as small or large as you prefer.
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Cook Until Golden: Cook the pancake on medium heat until the edges start to turn golden brown, and the top surface appears set.
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Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook the other side until it’s golden and crispy. Add a bit of oil around the edges to ensure even cooking.
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Serve Hot: Once both sides are cooked to your liking, remove the Garlic Gram Pancake from the pan, garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Garlic Gram Pancakes is approximately 20-30 minutes, including the batter resting time. Cooking each pancake takes a few minutes, depending on the size and heat of the pan.
Enjoy these flavorful and nutritious Garlic Gram Pancakes as a snack or breakfast item with your favorite chutney or yogurt!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Garlic Gram Pancakes:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values for one serving of Garlic Gram Pancakes, without additional toppings or accompaniments):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories per serving (varies based on size and oil usage)
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 4-6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams (since it’s a plant-based dish)
- Sodium: Varies based on added salt but generally low
- Potassium: 150-200 milligrams
- Vitamin C: Approximately 5-10% of the daily recommended intake
- Calcium: 1-2% of the daily recommended intake
- Iron: 5-7% of the daily recommended intake
Health Information:
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High Protein Content: Gram flour (besan) is a good source of plant-based protein, making Garlic Gram Pancakes a suitable option for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
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Rich in Dietary Fiber: Chickpea flour contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain healthy bowel movements, and may contribute to a feeling of fullness, making it potentially beneficial for weight management.
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Low in Saturated Fat: These pancakes are generally low in saturated fat, which is good for heart health. The small amount of oil used for cooking can be controlled to keep the fat content low.
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Source of Essential Nutrients: Garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may contribute to improved immune function and overall well-being.
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Gluten-Free: Gram flour is naturally gluten-free, making Garlic Gram Pancakes suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Spices for Flavor: The use of spices like turmeric and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also brings potential health benefits. Turmeric, in particular, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
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Low in Cholesterol: Since this recipe is plant-based, it is naturally cholesterol-free. This can be beneficial for heart health.
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Customizable: You can adjust the level of spiciness and salt to suit your dietary preferences and restrictions.
It’s important to note that the actual nutrition content can vary based on factors such as the size of the pancake and the amount of oil used for cooking. Additionally, toppings or accompaniments like chutney or yogurt will add extra calories and nutrients.
Overall, Garlic Gram Pancakes can be a nutritious and delicious addition to a balanced diet, especially when enjoyed in moderation as part of a diverse meal plan.
