Besan Aur Mirch Ki Sabzi (Chickpea Flour and Green Chili Stir Fry)
A simple yet flavorful dish from the heart of Rajasthan, Besan Aur Mirch Ki Sabzi is a delightful combination of roasted chickpea flour (besan) and green chilies. This spicy vegetarian dish makes for a perfect accompaniment to a variety of Indian meals. Its subtle, smoky taste is enhanced by the tangy lemon juice and aromatic spices, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
This recipe is easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that are typically found in any Indian kitchen. Whether you’re craving something spicy or are looking for a dish that’s quick and satisfying, Besan Aur Mirch Ki Sabzi is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chickpea flour (besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Green chilies | 10 whole |
| Oil | As required |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | As required |
| Red chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | As required |
| Fresh coriander leaves | For garnish (optional) |
Preparation Time
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time
- 30 minutes
Total Time
- 45 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Cuisine
- Rajasthani
Course
- Lunch
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Green Chilies
Start by cutting the green chilies in half and removing the seeds. This helps reduce the spiciness while retaining their flavor. -
Cook the Chilies
Heat oil in a pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once hot, add asafoetida (hing) and sauté for about 10 seconds. Next, add the green chilies and cook them until they soften, stirring occasionally. This should take about 8-10 minutes. -
Prepare the Besan Mixture
While the chilies are cooking, take a separate bowl and mix chickpea flour (besan), red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring to avoid lumps. The mixture should have a smooth consistency, like a thick batter. -
Combine the Mixture with Chilies
Once the chilies are soft, add the prepared besan mixture into the pan. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients. -
Cook the Sabzi
Allow the mixture to cook on low-medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure the chickpea flour is cooked through. The besan will take about 10-12 minutes to cook completely and reach a slightly golden color. The mixture should thicken and absorb the flavors of the spices and chilies. -
Garnish and Serve
Once the sabzi is cooked and the besan has turned golden, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with panchmel dal and roti, or pair it with traditional dal baati for an authentic Rajasthani experience.
Serving Suggestions
Besan Aur Mirch Ki Sabzi pairs wonderfully with a variety of traditional Indian flatbreads like roti, paratha, or even bajra roti. For a more complete meal, serve it alongside panchmel dal (a mixed lentil dish) and some steaming hot dal baati for a comforting and hearty feast. You can also enjoy it with plain rice or as a side dish to any of your favorite curries.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Sugars | 1 g |
This recipe provides a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential fats. It’s low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a light and nutritious lunch. The addition of green chilies provides a metabolism-boosting effect, while the besan adds a satisfying richness to the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Besan Aur Mirch Ki Sabzi is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful vegetarian dish. Its simplicity in preparation doesn’t compromise on taste. The chickpea flour offers a hearty base that complements the fiery heat of the green chilies, balanced by the tangy lemon juice and spices. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this Rajasthani specialty is sure to impress with its bold flavors and ease of preparation.
Try this recipe next time you’re in the mood for something spicy and comforting, and it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
