Small Banana 2 Pieces
Lunch • India
How to Make Banana Chilla (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Banana Chilla is a delightful and nutritious Indian pancake made with ripe bananas and whole wheat flour (atta), commonly enjoyed as a healthy lunch or breakfast across many Indian homes. This dish transforms humble bananas into a comforting, nourishing meal that brings out their natural sweetness without added sugar. Chilla (also spelled cheela) is a popular choice during fasting (vrat) or on auspicious days, especially in North Indian households. Prepared quickly on a tawa, this healthy version uses minimal ghee and incorporates spices like elaichi (cardamom) and a touch of saunf (fennel seeds) for flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy bananas in a cooked form, making it gentle on the stomach and suitable for all ages. Banana Chilla is a go-to dish for those seeking wholesome homemade recipes with a hint of Indian festivity. Whether you’re celebrating Maha Shivratri or simply looking for a nutritious lunchbox option, this recipe is both versatile and rooted in Indian tradition.
Ingredients(for 1 medium chilla per serving)
- 2 pieces Small ripe banana (elaichi kela or regular small banana)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/4 cup Low-fat milk (doodh (use plant milk for vegan version)) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom powder (elaichi powder)
- 1/2 tsp Fennel seeds (saunf, lightly crushed) - optional
- 1 tbsp Jaggery powder (gur (optional, for extra sweetness)) - optional
- a pinch Salt (sendha namak for fasting days) - optional
- 1 tsp Ghee (or cold-pressed oil for vegan)
- 1 tbsp Chopped nuts (badam, kaju, or walnuts (optional)) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel and mash the small bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth and lump-free.
3 minutes
Use overripe bananas for best sweetness and texture.
- 2
Add atta (whole wheat flour) to the mashed banana. Mix well to combine.
2 minutes
Sift the atta to avoid lumps.
- 3
Gradually add low-fat milk (or water/plant milk) to achieve a pourable batter consistency. Mix in cardamom powder, fennel seeds, salt, and jaggery if using.
4 minutes
Adjust liquid as needed; batter should be similar to dosa batter.
- 4
Heat a non-stick tawa and brush lightly with ghee. Pour a ladleful of batter and spread gently into a medium circle.
2 minutes
Cook on medium flame to avoid burning.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy banana chilla recipe avoids refined flour and sugar, relying on natural sweetness and whole grains. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it ideal for weight management and a balanced diet. With the option to use plant-based milk and oil, it can easily be adapted for vegan diets. The recipe uses minimal fat, making it light on calories yet filling, perfect for those tracking macros or seeking nourishing Indian recipes.
Banana Chilla is packed with essential nutrients from bananas, such as potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making it a great energy booster. Whole wheat atta provides complex carbohydrates and protein, supporting sustained energy release and muscle health. The inclusion of nuts adds healthy fats and additional protein, while spices like cardamom and fennel aid digestion. This dish is low in refined sugar, especially if jaggery is omitted, and uses minimal ghee, making it suitable for heart health.
Pro Tips
- 💡Mash bananas thoroughly for a smooth batter.
- 💡Use a well-seasoned non-stick tawa for easy flipping.
- 💡For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon along with cardamom.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat on a tawa before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
