Chhattisgarh Cheela
Breakfast • India
About Chhattisgarh Cheela
Chhattisgarh besan-and-rice flour cheela with vegetables — Raipur staple.
How to Make Chhattisgarh Cheela (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chhattisgarh Cheela is a cherished breakfast delicacy originating from the heart of Chhattisgarh, an eastern state of India renowned for its rich culinary heritage. This wholesome Indian cheela is crafted from besan (gram flour), fresh vegetables, and mild spices, creating a savory pancake that is both nourishing and delicious. Traditionally prepared on a tawa, Cheela is a staple in Chhattisgarhi households, loved for its quick preparation and satisfying taste. The dish is celebrated for its simplicity and adaptability, making it a popular choice during festivals like Hareli, where families gather to enjoy regional specialties. Chhattisgarh Cheela delivers a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates, with a delightful crisp exterior and tender interior. Its mild, earthy flavors are elevated by the addition of veggies like pyaz (onion), tamatar (tomato), and dhania (coriander), making it a vibrant, health-conscious option for Indian breakfasts. In Indian cuisine, Cheela is often served with chutney or curd, enhancing its taste and nutritional value. Whether enjoyed as a morning meal or packed for a lunchbox, Chhattisgarh Cheela embodies the warmth and tradition of East India, offering an authentic taste of Indian regional food culture.
Ingredients(for 1 large cheela per person)
- 1 cup Besan (gram flour) (locally called besan)
- 1 small, finely chopped Pyaz (onion) (adds crunch)
- 1 small, finely chopped Tamatar (tomato) (for tanginess)
- 1, finely chopped Hari mirch (green chilli) (optional for spice) - optional
- 2 tbsp, chopped Dhaniya (fresh coriander) (for freshness)
- 1/4 tsp Haldi (turmeric powder) (for color and health)
- 1/2 tsp Jeera (cumin seeds) (for flavor)
- to taste Salt
- 3/4 cup Water (for batter consistency)
- 2 tsp Oil (preferably mustard oil for authenticity)
Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine besan, haldi, jeera, and salt. Mix well.
3 minutes
Sift besan to avoid lumps and ensure smooth batter.
- 2
Add chopped pyaz, tamatar, hari mirch, and dhaniya to the dry ingredients.
2 minutes
Use fresh vegetables for best flavor and texture.
- 3
Gradually pour water and whisk to form a lump-free, semi-thick batter.
5 minutes
Adjust water for desired consistency; batter should be pourable but not runny.
- 4
Heat a tawa on medium flame. Brush lightly with oil.
2 minutes
Ensure tawa is hot before pouring batter for crisp cheela.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Cheela recipe is healthy due to its high protein content, low saturated fat, and incorporation of fresh vegetables. The use of besan (gram flour) instead of refined flour ensures slow-release carbs, which help maintain blood sugar levels. Minimal oil makes it weight-loss friendly, while fiber-rich ingredients promote satiety. It’s also adaptable for vegan diets and suitable for diabetics when paired with low GI veggies.
Chhattisgarh Cheela is packed with plant-based protein from besan, making it a great option for vegetarians. Each serving provides 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g healthy fats, supporting balanced energy levels. Besan is rich in folate, iron, and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and heart health. The addition of fresh vegetables like pyaz and tamatar offers vitamins A, C, and essential minerals. Using minimal oil keeps the calories low, making it ideal for calorie-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh besan for superior flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Do not overmix the batter—gentle whisking prevents toughness.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra crispiness, add a teaspoon of rice flour to the batter.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled cheela in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a tawa for best texture. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 195.0 kcal |
| Protein | 8.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26.0 g |
| Total Fat | 7.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
