11. BESAN (GRAM FLOUR) CHILLA (DIET FOOD)

INGREDIENTS

1. Besan (Gram Flour) 1 cup 
2. Salt 1/2 tsp (as per taste)
3. Red chilly powder 1/4 tsp
4. Ajwain seeds 1/2 tsp 
5. Baking soda 1/8 tsp 
6. Onion (01) grated
7. Green Chilies (2-3) finely chopped 
8. Coriander (dhania) leaves chopped 
9. Cottage Cheese (Paneer) 1 cup, mashed and mixed with salt, chilly powder and chopped coriander leaves
10. Cooking Oil 1/4 cup  

METHOD

1. Mix water in besan to make it a thick batter of pouring consistency ensuring that there are no lumps in it.
2. Add other ingredients (2 to 7) and mix well.
3. Heat a  non-stick flat pan/griddle/tawa. Smear 1/4 tsp of oil on it. Pour a ladle full of batter and spread it around with a flat wooden spatula till it is spread out uniformly. Apply another 1/4 tsp of oil on it. Flip it over and cook from the other side too till it becomes golden brown in colour. Regulate heat to ensure that it does not get burnt.
4. Flip back to original position and place a tbsp of Paneer mix in the centre and fold it midway. 
5. Serve it with Imli / Sonth/ Mint Chutney.

USEFUL TIPS

1. Substitute Besan with Chana Atta (Bengal gram flour with skin) for diabetics.
2. Regulating quantity of baking soda is absolutely essential. Less of it will make the Chilla limp and soft while any extra quantity will make it reek of soda and spoil the taste. So take care!
3. Adding chopped/grated garlic can add extra taste and flavour.
4. You may make your own Sweet & Sour Chutney by mixing 1.5 cups of water 2 tbsp Dry Mango powder (Amchoor), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp chilly powder, 1/2 cup sugar or jaggery and boiling it for a few minutes till it becomes a thick sauce. 

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