Besan Cheela with Onion and Tomato
Lunch • India
How to Make Besan Cheela with Onion and Tomato (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Besan Cheela with Onion and Tomato is a beloved North Indian vegetarian dish, often enjoyed as a light lunch or hearty breakfast. Made from besan (gram flour), this savory pancake is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a staple in many households. The addition of onions and tomatoes brings a fresh, tangy twist, complementing the earthy notes of besan. Cheela is commonly prepared on a tawa and served with chutney or curd, making it ideal for those seeking a wholesome, filling meal without excess calories. Originating from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, besan cheela is a popular choice during festivals such as Holi and Diwali, when families gather for nutritious and easy-to-make meals. Its versatility allows for regional variations, with some households adding green chilies or coriander for extra zest. This dish is perfect for calorie-conscious eaters, as it is low in fat and high in plant-based protein. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a healthy snack, Besan Cheela with Onion and Tomato is an authentic Indian recipe that satisfies both taste and nutrition.
Ingredients(for 2 medium cheelas per person)
- 1 cup Besan (Gram flour) (बेसन)
- 1 medium, finely chopped Onion (प्याज)
- 1 medium, finely chopped Tomato (टमाटर)
- 1, finely chopped Green chili (हरी मिर्च) - optional
- 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh coriander leaves (धनिया)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (जीरा)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (हल्दी)
- 1/4 tsp Red chili powder (लाल मिर्च) - optional
- to taste Salt (नमक)
- 3/4 cup (approx.) Water (पानी)
- 1 tsp per cheela Oil (तेल, preferably mustard oil)
Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, add besan, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
3 minutes
Sift besan if needed to avoid lumps.
- 2
Gradually add water, whisking continuously to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
4 minutes
Use a whisk for a light and airy batter.
- 3
Add chopped onion, tomato, green chili, and coriander leaves to the batter. Mix thoroughly.
3 minutes
Finely chop vegetables for even cooking.
- 4
Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium flame. Lightly grease with oil.
2 minutes
Ensure the tawa is hot before pouring batter.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Besan Cheela is a healthy choice because it is high in protein, low in saturated fat, and packed with fiber, keeping you fuller for longer. Its nutrient-dense ingredients support digestion and overall wellness. The addition of onions and tomatoes increases antioxidant content, making this recipe ideal for weight management, diabetes control, and heart health. It is a wholesome, satisfying meal that fits well into calorie tracking plans.
Besan Cheela is rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber thanks to gram flour and fresh vegetables. It provides essential vitamins like vitamin C from tomatoes and onions, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. The moderate use of oil and absence of refined flour make it a low-fat, gluten-free option (if using pure besan). This dish is also suitable for those on a vegetarian diet, offering a balanced mix of nutrients for sustained energy.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh besan for maximum flavor and nutrition.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust batter consistency for thinner or thicker cheelas as per preference.
- 💡Tip 3: For crispier cheelas, cook on medium-high flame and use minimal oil.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover cheelas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat on a tawa or microwave before serving. Avoid freezing as texture may change.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
