Oats Besan Cheela
Lunch • India
How to Make Oats Besan Cheela (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Oats Besan Cheela is a nutritious and savory North Indian pancake, traditionally enjoyed as a wholesome lunch or breakfast. Combining the goodness of oats (jaee) and besan (gram flour), this cheela is known for its light, fluffy texture and rich, earthy flavor. Originating from the heartlands of Punjab and Haryana, cheela is a staple in many households, often served with fresh chutney or dahi (curd). The addition of oats brings a modern, health-conscious twist to the classic besan cheela, making it higher in dietary fiber and ideal for calorie-conscious individuals. This dish is popular during festivals like Holi and Lohri, where families gather for nutritious meals. Its versatility allows for regional variations, such as adding fresh greens or spices to suit local tastes. Oats Besan Cheela is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor, making it an excellent choice for those looking to balance tradition and health in their Indian cuisine.
Ingredients(for 1 medium cheela (approx. 100g))
- 1/2 cup Oats (jaee) (Rolled or instant oats)
- 1/2 cup Besan (gram flour) (Fresh besan for best flavor)
- 1 small, finely chopped Onion (Pyaaz)
- 1 small, finely chopped Tomato (Tamatar)
- 1-2, finely chopped Green chillies (Hari mirch) - optional
- 2 tbsp, chopped Coriander leaves (Dhaniya)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (Jeera)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (Haldi)
- to taste Salt (Namak)
- as needed Water (For batter consistency)
- 1-2 tsp Oil (For greasing tawa; use mustard oil for authentic flavor)
Instructions
- 1
Dry roast oats in a pan for 2 minutes and grind to a coarse powder. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
5 minutes
Roasting oats enhances flavor and makes grinding easier.
- 2
Add besan, chopped onion, tomato, green chillies, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, turmeric, and salt to the oats powder.
5 minutes
Mix veggies well for even distribution and flavor.
- 3
Gradually add water to make a smooth, pouring consistency batter. Ensure no lumps remain.
3 minutes
Batter should be slightly thick but spreadable; add water slowly.
- 4
Heat a tawa (griddle) and lightly grease with oil. Pour a ladle of batter and spread into a thin circle.
2 minutes
Use the back of a spoon to spread batter evenly.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This cheela recipe uses whole grains and legumes, which are high in fiber and protein, keeping you fuller for longer and aiding weight loss. Oats Besan Cheela is cooked with minimal oil, reducing unnecessary calories and fats. Vegetables boost micronutrient intake, while the absence of refined flour and sugar makes it ideal for diabetics and calorie-conscious eaters. Its balanced macros make it perfect for healthy lunch routines.
Oats Besan Cheela is rich in dietary fiber, plant protein, and essential vitamins like B-complex, iron, and folate. Oats lower cholesterol and improve digestion, while besan provides protein and minerals. Fresh vegetables add antioxidants and vitamins A and C. The dish is low in saturated fat, making it heart-friendly and suitable for diabetics. It's an excellent energy source, supports muscle health, and aids weight management.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Roast oats to enhance flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh besan for a smoother batter and better taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Add seasonal greens like spinach, methi, or palak for extra nutrition.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover cheela in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat on a tawa to restore freshness. Batter can be refrigerated for 1 day; stir before use.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 190.0 kcal |
