Packed With Veggies:

Chilla Recipes

For A Colourful Plate

Quick Summary

Chillas are a flexible and nutritious Indian snack that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or even as a light dinner. By adding vegetables, you can create colourful and nutritious chillas that are loved by kids and adults. This article looks at a variety of veggie chilla recipes, their nutritional benefits, quick preparation methods, and ways to make the chillas more nutritious and colourful. 

Deep Dive

Chillas, the Indian version of pancakes, are common and have been made in Indian kitchens for centuries. Traditionally, they are made by using either besan (gram flour) or lentil-based batter. These bases make the chillas high in protein and fibre, and a healthier alternative to breads or gluten-based rotis or parathas. Chillas are versatile. A number of veggies can be added to them, making them more colourful and nutritious, packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. 

For example, shredded carrots provide beta-carotene for eye health, spinach adds iron and folate for energy and growth, and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C for immunity. When these veggies are mixed with protein from besan or lentil-based flours, the chilla becomes a balanced meal that keeps you full for longer, supports digestion, and keeps the energy levels high for people who have busy days. 

Research shows that incorporating vegetables into familiar dishes is one of the most effective ways to improve children’s vegetable intake. Chillas are the best way to incorporate vegetables as they are familiar, and their vibrant appearance, with the help of veggies, makes them look more appealing. They are also quick to make, becoming a perfect option for those who are looking to incorporate nutritious and easy-to-make foods into their diet. 

Besan Chilla With Carrots And Capsicum

Besan chillas are the most common and easily made chillas in many Indian households. With the help of carrots and capsicum, you can not only make them look appealing but also nutritious. Besan is high in protein and gluten-free, while carrots have beta-carotene, and capsicum is rich in vitamin C. You can add spices like cumin, turmeric, and green chillies to the batter to add more flavour to it. Cook this chilla in a non-stick pan with minimal oil to make it a healthier and wholesome meal. 

Moong Dal Chilla With Spinach And Corn

Moong dal chillas are packed with protein; they are easy to digest, making them perfect for children as well as adults. You can add the puree of spinach to the moong dal chilla batter and top the chilla with corn for a visual appeal. You can also choose to add the corns to the batter itself, depending on your preference. Spinach is rich in iron and fibre, making it a healthy choice. This combination supports healthy digestion and immunity, and gives energy, making it an ideal breakfast or lunch option.