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Palak Chilla Recipe A Healthy and Delicious Spinach Pancake You Must Try
Palak chilla recipe is a simple, nutritious dish that you can enjoy for breakfast, snack, or light dinner. This Indian spinach pancake combines the goodness of palak (spinach) with gram flour, making it both healthy and tasty. If you want to add more flavor, serve it with beetroot raita. This pairing creates a perfect balance of taste and nutrition.
Palak chilla is quick to make and requires minimal ingredients. The fresh spinach adds essential vitamins, while the gram flour provides protein and fiber. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. In this blog, I’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make the perfect palak chilla with tips for the best results.
Why You Should Try This Palak Chilla Recipe
Palak chilla is not just tasty but also very healthy. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants, which help boost immunity. Gram flour adds protein, making this pancake a balanced meal. It is low in calories and easy to digest.
This recipe is ideal for busy mornings when you want something quick and nourishing. It’s vegan and gluten-free, perfect for diverse diets. Also, pairing it with beetroot raita adds a tangy and refreshing twist. Beetroot raita is rich in vitamins and helps digestion.
Ingredients for Palak Chilla Recipe
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (palak), finely chopped or pureed
- 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Oil for cooking
- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves (optional)
Step-by-Step Palak Chilla Recipe
Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, add gram flour, turmeric, cumin seeds, and salt. Mix well.
Add spinach: Add finely chopped or pureed spinach to the bowl. Mix again.
Add water: Slowly add water little by little and whisk to make a smooth, pourable batter like pancake batter.
Add spices: If you want some heat, add finely chopped green chili and coriander leaves. Mix well.
Heat the pan: Use a non-stick pan or tawa, and heat it on medium flame. Lightly grease with oil.
Cook the chilla: Pour a ladle of batter onto the pan and spread it gently in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
Cook both sides: Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to lift. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
Serve hot: Serve your palak chilla hot with beetroot raita or your favorite chutney.
Tips for the Best Palak Chilla
- Use fresh spinach for the best taste and nutrition.
- You can also blend spinach into a smooth puree for a more uniform texture.
- Adjust water to get the right batter consistency. Too thick batter makes chillas hard.
- Cook on medium flame to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
- Add finely chopped veggies like onions, tomatoes, or grated carrots for variety.
Beetroot Raita The Perfect Palak Chilla Companion
Beetroot raita is a creamy yogurt-based side that perfectly complements palak chilla. The sweetness of beetroot and the tanginess of yogurt balance the savory flavors of the chilla.
Beetroot Raita Recipe
- 1 cup grated beetroot
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
Mix grated beetroot with yogurt. Add salt and cumin powder. Garnish with coriander. Serve chilled alongside palak chilla.
Health Benefits of Palak Chilla
- Rich in iron and calcium from spinach
- High protein from gram flour
- Gluten-free and vegan
- Low-calorie and good for weight loss
- Easy to digest and quick to prepare
Final Thoughts
This palak chilla recipe is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. It is easy to prepare and suitable for all age groups. Pair it with beetroot raita for an extra burst of flavor and health benefits. Whether for breakfast, snack, or light dinner, palak chilla will never disappoint. Try this healthy spinach pancake today and enjoy a wholesome meal.
FAQ
Gram flour is essential for binding. You can try besan alternatives, but results may vary.
Yes, palak chilla is low in calories and high in fiber and protein, making it ideal for weight loss.
Absolutely! You can add onions, tomatoes, carrots, or capsicum for more flavor and nutrition.
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can refrigerate for up to 1 day and reheat before serving.
Beetroot raita, green chutney, or plain yogurt are excellent options.
