Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner option? Look no further! This Besan Flour Bread recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal. Besan, also known as gram flour or chickpea flour, is a nutritional powerhouse, making this bread a delicious and healthy addition to your diet. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and offers a unique texture and taste that will quickly become a family favorite. This recipe is packed with flavor and is a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup besan flour (gram flour or chickpea flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water (or more, as needed)
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (for cooking)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the besan flour, baking soda, turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), cumin seeds, and salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Make the Batter:
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and have a slightly thick consistency, similar to pancake batter. Add more water if needed to reach the desired consistency. Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the water and creates a smoother texture.
Cook the Bread:
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Heat oil or ghee in a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
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Once the pan is hot, pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each bread. Spread it gently into a thin, round circle.
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Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You'll know it's ready when the edges start to lift slightly and the bottom is nicely browned.
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Remove the cooked bread from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Besan Flour Bread:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the bread tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. Add more chili powder for extra heat, or experiment with other spices like garam masala or ginger powder.
- Control the heat: Medium heat is crucial for even cooking. Too high, and the bread will burn; too low, and it will be soggy.
- Use a non-stick pan: This will prevent the bread from sticking and make it easier to flip.
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped onions, peppers, or spinach into the batter for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Besan Bread: Mix in some grated cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Sweet Besan Bread: Reduce or omit the chili powder and add a touch of sugar for a sweeter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
This Besan Flour Bread recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that are both delicious and healthy. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it perfect for beginner cooks while still offering enough flexibility to experiment and create your own unique variations. Enjoy!