For most of us, planning breakfast in the morning is a hustle due to limited time. However, you cannot neglect your first meal as it sets the tone of your entire day. If you are on the lookout for a delicious and nutritious meal that is also simple to make, chillas (Indian pancakes) are an excellent option. They are rich in protein, fibre, and vital nutrients, and will fill you up and keep you satisfied.
Healthy Chilla Recipes To Try In The Morning
1. Moong Dal Chilla
Moong dal chilla is a great option for those who want to incorporate plant protein in their food. Prepared using soaked and blended moong dal (split green gram), it is light, healthy, and gentle on the digestive system.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup moong dal (soaked for 4-5 hours)
- 1 green chilli (finely chopped)
- ½ inch ginger (grated)
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander leaves
- Water as needed
- Oil for cooking
Method
- Grind the soaked moong dal with some water to make a smooth batter.
- Add chopped green chilli, ginger, cumin seeds, salt, and coriander leaves. Mix well.
- Put a ladleful of batter into a hot non-stick pan and spread it out evenly.
- Drizzle oil around the edges and cook on medium heat until golden brown.
- After two minutes, flip it over and cook it for another two minutes. Serve hot with chutney.
2. Besan Chilla
Besan (gram flour) chilla is one of the easiest and quickest healthy breakfast options. It is gluten-free and high in protein, making it a perfect start to your day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- ½ teaspoon red chilli powder
- ½ cup finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and capsicum
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
- Oil for cooking
Method
- In a bowl, mix besan, turmeric powder, ajwain, red chilli powder, salt, and water to make a smooth batter.
- Add chopped vegetables and mix well.
- Heat a pan and pour the batter, spreading it evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or curd.
3. Oats Chilla
Oats chilla is a nutritious option loaded with fibre, which keeps digestion in check and provides long-lasting energy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats (powdered)
- ½ cup curd
- ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ cup finely chopped spinach, carrots, and onions
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
- Oil for cooking
Method
- Mix powdered oats, curd, and water to make a smooth batter.
- Add spices, salt, and chopped vegetables, mixing well.
- Pour a ladle of batter onto a hot pan and spread it evenly.
- Cook over medium heat until both sides are golden brown.
- Serve with yoghurt or chutney.
4. Ragi Chilla
Ragi (finger millet) is a powerhouse of calcium and iron, making it an excellent choice for bone health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ragi flour
- ¼ cup rice flour (for crispiness)
- ½ cup finely chopped onions, carrots, and bell peppers
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Oil for cooking
Method
- Mix ragi flour, rice flour, salt, and water to form a smooth batter.
- Add chopped vegetables and cumin seeds, stirring well.
- Pour batter onto a heated pan and cook until golden brown.
- Cook for one more minute after flipping.
- Serve with a side of coconut chutney.
5. Sprouts Chilla
Sprouts are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making this chilla an immunity-boosting breakfast option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed sprouts (blended into a coarse paste)
- ¼ cup besan (gram flour)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ cup finely chopped onions and tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
- Oil for cooking
Method
- Blend sprouts into a coarse paste and mix with besan, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, and salt.
- Add water if needed to get a smooth consistency.
- Heat a pan and pour batter, spreading evenly.
- Let it cook on medium heat until both sides are golden brown.
- Serve hot with green chutney or curd.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]