Certainly, I’d be happy to provide you with a detailed recipe for Savory Chickpea Pancakes. These pancakes are a delicious and nutritious gluten-free option. Let’s dive into it:
What is it?
Savory Chickpea Pancakes, also known as Besan Chilla or Gram Flour Pancakes, are a popular dish in Indian cuisine. They are made from chickpea flour (besan) and are typically seasoned with various spices and herbs. These pancakes are savory, flavorful, and have a slightly nutty taste.
History:
Chickpea flour has been a staple in Indian and Mediterranean cuisines for centuries. The history of savory chickpea pancakes can be traced back to ancient times when chickpea flour was used to create a variety of dishes. Today, these pancakes are enjoyed not only in their place of origin but also around the world due to their gluten-free and vegan-friendly nature.
Components:
Here are the key components you’ll need for savory chickpea pancakes:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, 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 your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Cooking oil for pan-frying
Steps to Prepare Savory Chickpea Pancakes:
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Mix the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour and water. Mix well to form a smooth, lump-free batter. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
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Add Vegetables and Spices:
- After the resting time, add the chopped onion, tomato, green chili, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala (if using), and salt to the batter. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
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Heat the Pan:
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add a few drops of oil and spread it across the pan.
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Cook the Pancakes:
- Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the hot pan and spread it gently into a circular shape, similar to a pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until the edges start to crisp up.
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Flip and Cook:
- Flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until it turns golden brown and crispy.
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Serve:
- Remove the savory chickpea pancake from the pan, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve hot.
Time Needed:
Preparing savory chickpea pancakes usually takes around 30-35 minutes, including the preparation time and cooking time. This can vary slightly depending on your cooking skills and the number of pancakes you’re making.
Enjoy your homemade Savory Chickpea Pancakes, a delightful gluten-free option that’s rich in flavor and history!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Savory Chickpea Pancakes (GF):
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximately 2 pancakes):
- Calories: 160-180 calories
- Total Fat: 4-6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 300-400 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 26-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 5-6 grams
- Sugars: 3-4 grams
- Protein: 7-9 grams
Health Information:
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Rich in Protein: Chickpea flour, the main ingredient, is a good source of plant-based protein. This makes chickpea pancakes an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.
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Gluten-Free: Chickpea pancakes are naturally gluten-free since they are made from chickpea flour. This makes them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Low in Saturated Fat: These pancakes are low in saturated fats, which is beneficial for heart health.
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High in Fiber: Chickpea flour is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Chickpea flour contains essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, magnesium, and phosphorus.
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Low in Cholesterol: This recipe contains no cholesterol, which is great for heart health.
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Spices and Herbs: The addition of spices like turmeric and chili powder may provide anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting benefits.
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Low Sugar: The sugar content in these pancakes is relatively low, which can help in managing blood sugar levels.
Remember that the actual nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the serving size. These values are approximate and based on a standard serving of two pancakes. To get the most accurate nutritional information, it’s advisable to calculate it using the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
