📸 Image coming soon for Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk
Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk
Beverages • India
How to Make Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk is a beloved North Indian breakfast classic that combines the protein-rich goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and besan (gram flour) with the wholesome comfort of a glass of milk. Traditionally enjoyed in Punjab and neighboring states, this dish is a staple in many households, especially during busy mornings or festive occasions when a nourishing start is needed. Chilla, also known as cheela, is a savory Indian pancake made with besan, and when paneer is added, it becomes even more filling and nutritious. The Paneer Besan Chilla is light, fluffy, and packed with subtle spices, making it a flavorful yet healthy choice for all age groups. Served hot off the tawa, these chillas are perfect with a side of chutney or curd, and pairing them with a glass of fresh milk adds a calcium boost to your meal. This combination is commonly prepared during festivals like Lohri and Baisakhi, symbolizing abundance and good health. With regional variations across North India, Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk is not only a treat to your taste buds but also a tribute to India's vibrant culinary heritage.
Ingredients(for 2 medium chillas with 1 glass (200ml) milk per serving)
- 1 cup Besan (gram flour) (chickpea flour)
- 100 grams Paneer (grated, fresh)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped, pyaz)
- 1 small Tomato (finely chopped, tamatar)
- 1 Green chili (finely chopped, hari mirch) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Coriander leaves (finely chopped, dhania)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red chili powder (lal mirch) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 3/4 cup Water (to make batter)
- 2 teaspoons Oil (for cooking, use mustard oil or any vegetable oil)
- 2 glasses (200 ml each) Milk (low-fat or toned)
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine besan, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and salt. Gradually add water and whisk to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
5 minutes
Whisk batter well for fluffier chillas. Batter should be of pouring consistency.
- 2
Add grated paneer, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chili, and coriander leaves into the batter. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
3 minutes
Do not over-mix after adding vegetables and paneer to keep chillas soft.
- 3
Heat a non-stick tawa or griddle on medium flame. Drizzle a few drops of oil and spread it using a cloth or spatula.
2 minutes
Ensure tawa is moderately hot before pouring the batter to avoid sticking.
- 4
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the tawa and spread into a medium-sized circle. Drizzle a few drops of oil around the chilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start lifting.
3 minutes
Do not press the chilla too hard while cooking; let it cook undisturbed for best texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is low in saturated fat, free from refined flour (maida), and uses minimal oil, making it heart-healthy and suitable for weight management. The high protein and fiber content help control appetite and blood sugar levels, supporting both weight loss and diabetic-friendly diets. The pairing with milk further boosts calcium intake, essential for growing children and adults alike. Its balanced macros and nutrient profile make Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk an ideal breakfast or lunch choice for a healthy Indian diet.
Paneer Besan Chilla with Milk is an excellent source of plant-based protein from besan and animal protein from paneer and milk, supporting muscle health and satiety. Besan is high in dietary fiber, iron, and complex carbohydrates, aiding digestion and providing sustained energy. Paneer supplies calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12, essential for bone strength and nervous system health. The addition of onions, tomatoes, and coriander increases vitamin C, antioxidants, and micronutrients, making this meal well-balanced and nourishing.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Sieve besan before making batter for extra smooth chillas.
- 💡Tip 2: If batter thickens on standing, add a little water to restore consistency.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra flavor, add ajwain (carom seeds) or kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the batter.
Storage & Serving
Paneer Besan Chilla is best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheat on a tawa before serving. Milk should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within the same day.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 400.0 kcal |
