Switch Up Your Breakfast Routine with these Savory Chilla Pancakes
Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you find yourself reaching for the same cereal or toast every morning? If you’re looking to add some excitement and flavor to your breakfast table, then you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a delightful dish that is not only savory but also packed with nutrients: Savory Chilla Pancakes. Made primarily from chickpea flour, these pancakes are not only delicious but also gluten-free and easy to whip up. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe that will surely elevate your breakfast game!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Savory Chilla Pancakes deserve a prominent place in your breakfast rotation for several reasons:
- Nutritious Base: Made from chickpea flour, these pancakes are high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying meal to kickstart your day.
- Flavorful Ingredients: With spices like cumin and turmeric, along with fresh herbs, every bite bursts with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, perfect for busy mornings.
- Versatile: You can customize these pancakes with your favorite vegetables or spices, making them suitable for any palate.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: They store well, making them an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you get cooking, here’s a handy shopping list to ensure you have everything you need for these delicious Savory Chilla Pancakes:
- Chickpea Flour: 1 ½ cups, the base ingredient that provides protein and fiber.
- Water: 2 ¼ cups, used to create the perfect batter consistency.
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
- Red Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon, for a hint of spice.
- Ground Cumin: ½ teaspoon, adding warmth and depth.
- Ground Turmeric: ½ teaspoon, not only for flavor but also for its beautiful color and health benefits.
- Coconut Oil: 1 teaspoon, melted, for richness in the batter.
- Shallots: ¼ cup, finely chopped, for a mild onion flavor.
- Green Onion: ¼ cup, adds freshness and crunch.
- Serrano Pepper: 1, finely chopped, for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a burst of flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, to brighten the dish.
- Ghee: 2 tablespoons, for cooking, adds a lovely buttery flavor.
Prep & Cook Tools
Gather the following tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the batter until smooth.
- Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the pancakes; non-stick works best.
- Spatula: To flip the pancakes without breaking them.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Chopping Knife and Cutting Board: To prepare your veggies and herbs.
Switch Up Your Breakfast Routine with these Savory Chilla Pancakes: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’re all set, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating these delightful Savory Chilla Pancakes.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of chickpea flour, 2 ¼ cups of water, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, and ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric. Whisk until well combined and smooth. Let the batter sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the chickpea flour to absorb the water and thicken slightly.
Step 2: Add Fresh Ingredients
After the batter has rested, fold in the chopped shallots, green onion, serrano pepper, cilantro, and parsley. Stir gently until everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of ghee. Allow it to melt and coat the surface evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Once the skillet is hot, pour about ½ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side or until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Using a spatula, carefully flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more ghee as necessary.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once cooked, serve the Savory Chilla Pancakes hot with your favorite chutney, yogurt, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Seasonal Adaptations
These Savory Chilla Pancakes are incredibly adaptable to seasonal ingredients. Here are some suggestions:
- Spring: Add diced asparagus or peas for a fresh, springtime twist.
- Summer: Incorporate diced zucchini or fresh corn for a sweet, summery flavor.
- Fall: Mix in grated carrots or finely chopped spinach; both add nutrition and color.
- Winter: Add chopped kale or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty, warming meal.
Little Things that Matter
Here are a few tips to ensure your pancakes turn out perfectly:
- Be sure to let the batter rest; this helps improve the texture.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference—add more chili flakes if you like it spicier!
- If the batter is too thick, add a little more water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Always preheat the skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you want to make a big batch of Savory Chilla Pancakes, they freeze beautifully! Here’s how to do it:
- Allow the pancakes to cool completely before freezing.
- Stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster oven or skillet until warmed through.
Questions People Ask
Can I use a different type of flour?
While chickpea flour gives the best flavor and texture for chilla pancakes, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours, but the results may vary.
What can I serve with Savory Chilla Pancakes?
These pancakes pair wonderfully with yogurt, chutney, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.
How do I store leftover pancakes?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes! Simply replace ghee with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative while cooking.
Save & Share
If you loved this recipe, please consider saving it or sharing it with your friends and family. These Savory Chilla Pancakes are not only a fantastic breakfast option but also a delightful dish for brunch or even dinner. By sharing, you can help others discover a new favorite meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!
Now that you have the recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to switch up your breakfast routine with these Savory Chilla Pancakes. They’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing a unique and flavorful start to your day. Enjoy the delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients, and watch as your mornings transform into something special!
Switch Up Your Breakfast Routine with these Savory Chilla Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, water, salt, red chili flakes, ground cumin, and ground turmeric. Whisk until smooth and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Fold in chopped shallots, green onion, serrano pepper, cilantro, and parsley into the batter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add ghee to coat the surface.
- Pour about ½ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 3-4 minutes until bubbles form and edges set.
- Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Serve hot with chutney, yogurt, or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Let the batter rest for better texture.
- Adjust spice levels as desired.
- Add more water if the batter is too thick.
- Preheat the skillet for even cooking.
