Besan Chila Stuffed with Chatpata Paneer
A healthy, protein-rich Indian breakfast or snack — besan (gram flour) pancakes stuffed with spicy crumbled paneer. Easy to cook, vegetarian, and great for a balanced diet.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, sift besan. Add turmeric, red chilli powder (if using), carom or cumin seeds and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add water and whisk to make a smooth batter of pouring consistency (similar to dosa batter). Rest the batter for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile prepare the paneer stuffing: crumble paneer, finely chop onion, green chilli, tomato and coriander. Mix all in a bowl, add chat masala (if using) and adjust salt. Keep aside.
- Heat a non-stick tawa / skillet over medium heat. Drizzle a few drops of oil and spread it with a tissue or brush.
- Pour a ladleful of batter on the hot tawa and gently spread in circular motion to form a thin pancake (chilla).
- When the top surface starts to cook (edges lifting slightly), drizzle a drop of oil around the edges and on top. Cook for 1–2 minutes till base is lightly golden.
- Flip carefully and cook the other side for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the chilla to a plate. Spoon a portion of the prepared paneer stuffing on one half of the chilla and fold it over, pressing gently.
- Repeat for remaining batter. Serve hot with green chutney or plain yogurt.
Notes
You can skip green chillies if serving to children. For a lighter version, use a non-stick pan and minimal oil. Adding chopped veggies (capsicum, carrot) with paneer stuffing increases fibre and vitamins.
Abhinav is the Founder of Diet Dekho, helping people manage weight and lifestyle health through simple, practical nutrition and personalized diet plans.