Matar Besan and Paneer Cheela (Green Peas & Paneer Crepes) Recipe
Matar Besan and Paneer Cheela is a delicious and savory North Indian breakfast dish made with a base of gram flour (besan), green peas, and paneer (homemade cottage cheese). This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those busy mornings or as a nutritious tea-time snack. The combination of green peas and paneer not only adds a wonderful flavor but also enhances the nutritional value of this light, healthy dish.
Cheelas are thin, pancake-like crepes that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. In this version, the soft green peas paste blends harmoniously with the besan, creating a savory, slightly crispy outer layer. Paneer is added to give the cheela a rich texture, making it more satisfying. This recipe is vegan-friendly and can be enjoyed by anyone who loves traditional North Indian breakfasts.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green peas (Matar), steamed | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 cup |
| Paneer (homemade cottage cheese), grated | 1/2 cup |
| Ginger, roughly chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Green chilies, finely chopped | 2 |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil, for cooking cheela | 2 teaspoons |
| Oil, for pan roasting | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fats | 6 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Green Pea Paste:
Begin by adding the steamed green peas (matar), green chilies, and ginger into a mixer grinder. Add a small amount of water to make a smooth, thick paste. The consistency should be thick enough to form a batter, so be careful not to add too much water. Once done, transfer this mixture to a large mixing bowl. -
Mix the Cheela Batter:
To the bowl containing the green pea paste, add the besan (gram flour), grated paneer, turmeric powder (haldi), cumin powder (jeera), and salt. Stir everything together well, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed. Gradually add water to achieve a thick batter consistency. The batter should not be too runny, but thick enough to spread on the pan. -
Preheat the Pan:
Heat a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease the surface with a few drops of oil, ensuring it is spread evenly. -
Cook the Matar Besan and Paneer Cheela:
Take a medium scoop of the prepared cheela batter and drop it onto the center of the preheated pan. Using the back of the spoon or a spatula, gently spread the batter into a round, thin shape. You can adjust the thickness of the cheela according to your preference, but traditionally, they are made slightly thin to get a crispy edge. -
Roast the Cheela:
Drizzle some oil around the edges of the cheela and let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until the underside turns golden brown. Once you see golden spots forming on the bottom, carefully flip the cheela using a spatula. Drizzle a little more oil around the edges and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden. -
Serve Hot:
Once both sides are evenly roasted, transfer the cheela to a serving plate. Serve the Matar Besan and Paneer Cheela immediately while hot, paired with your favorite chutneys such as Tomato Onion Chutney or Tomato Garlic Chutney. A cup of Masala Chai on the side makes this meal even more delightful.
Tips for Perfect Matar Besan and Paneer Cheela:
- Batter Consistency: The consistency of the batter is key. It should be thick enough to spread easily on the pan but not too thin to run. Adjust the amount of water accordingly to get the right texture.
- Paneer Texture: For the best results, use homemade paneer. It adds a soft, crumbly texture to the cheela, enriching its flavor. If you don’t have homemade paneer, store-bought works as well, but make sure to grate it finely.
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can modify the number of green chilies to make the cheela milder or spicier according to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the cheela with a refreshing glass of Masala Chai or a tangy yogurt dip for a wholesome meal.
Enjoy this nutritious, wholesome breakfast or snack, packed with the goodness of green peas, besan, and paneer!
