Cooking with chickpea flour: 5 tasty ideas
What's the story
Chickpea flour, popularly referred to as gram flour or besan, is a versatile ingredient that finds its way into a range of cuisines. Made from ground chickpeas, it's protein- and fiber-rich. This gluten-free flour can be used to whip up a variety of delicious dishes, be it savory snacks or sweet treats. Here are five amazing recipes that highlight the versatility of chickpea flour.
Pancakes
Savory pancakes with vegetables
Savory pancakes made with chickpea flour are a breakfast staple in many cultures. To make these pancakes, mix some chickpea flour with water to form a smooth batter. Stir in finely chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and spinach for flavor and nutrition. Season the batter with salt, cumin seeds, and turmeric, before cooking on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides.
Fritters
Crispy chickpea flour fritters
Chickpea flour fritters make a great snack/appetizer option. For these fritters, mix chickpea flour with water to prepare a thick batter. Add finely chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, and spices like cumin powder and red chili powder for taste. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil till they turn crispy and golden brown.
Flatbreads
Gluten-free flatbreads
You can also use chickpea flour to prepare gluten-free flatbreads that go well with a range of dishes. Combine chickpea flour with water to create a dough-like texture. Roll out small portions of the dough into thin circles with a rolling pin. Cook each flatbread on a hot skillet until both sides have developed light brown spots.
Halwa
Sweet chickpea flour halwa
Chickpea flour halwa is an indulgent dessert that can be easily prepared at home. Roast chickpea flour in ghee till it is fragrant and browned, slightly darker than its original shade. Add flavored sugar syrup with cardamom powder, and nuts such as almonds or cashews, if desired, before serving warm.
Crackers
Spicy chickpea flour crackers
Spicy crackers made from chickpeas offer an interesting twist on traditional snacks while being healthier too. Combine equal parts of whole wheat and gram flours together, adding spices such as paprika and garlic powder, along with some olive oil, forming dough. This gets rolled out thinly, cut into shapes, and baked until crisp perfection is achieved.