Chila
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Chila are thin crepes from Northern India, typically made with garam (chickpea) flour. They're usually savory, with onions and tomatoes as the basic core add-ins. The most common kind is 'Besan Chila,' which perhaps might merit its own entry!
The core recipe is much like a Dosa from southern India, but served on a plate or folded crepe style - not in a crispy tube like a Dosa.
Chila Recipe (North Indian Savory Pancake)
Ingredients (Makes 4-6 Chilas)
- Besan (chickpea flour) – 1 cup
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Tomato – 1 small, finely chopped (optional)
- Green chili – 1, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh coriander – A handful, chopped
- Turmeric powder – ¼ teaspoon
- Red chili powder – ¼ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Ajwain (carom seeds) – ¼ teaspoon
- Salt – To taste
- Water – About ¾ cup, to make a pourable batter
- Oil – For cooking
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, add besan, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chili, and coriander.
- Mix in turmeric, red chili powder, ajwain, and salt.
- Gradually add water, whisking until you get a smooth, lump-free batter of pourable consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Chila
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet on medium heat. Lightly grease it with oil.
- Pour a ladleful of batter onto the center and gently spread it into a round, medium-thick pancake.
- Drizzle a little oil around the edges and on top. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and repeat with remaining batter.
Serving Suggestions
Chila is best enjoyed hot, served with:
- Green chutney (mint-coriander)
- Tamarind chutney
- Plain yogurt or pickle
| Name_ | Chila |
|---|---|
| Origin_ | 🇮🇳 India |
| Morphology_ | ⟁ Crepe |
| Flavor_ | savory |
| Filling_ | onions, tomatoes |
| Topping_ | chutneys |
| Recipe_ | Chila Recipe |
| « All Pancakes_ | |