If you’re on the hunt for a light yet satisfying snack that also doubles up as a quick meal, this one’s a keeper. Welcome to Episode 4 of our Healthy Snacking Series — where we’re making soft, spiced Lauki Besan Chilla paired with the most vibrant, zesty Amla Chutney. Packed with flavor, fiber, and immunity-boosting goodness, this recipe is perfect for anytime hunger pangs.
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a post-workout snack, or a light dinner, these savory lentil pancakes are easy to whip up and absolutely delicious. Save this recipe — it makes 8 mini chillas that are ideal for sharing or meal prepping.
Preparation time – 20 minutes
Cook time – 30 minutes
Serves – 3-4 people
Ingredients
For the Lauki Besan Chilla (makes 8 small chillas):
- 3 cups besan (gram flour)
- 2 cups grated lauki (bottle gourd)
- Water, as required
- ¼ tsp hing (asafoetida)
- 2 tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 2 tsp carrom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
- Oil, as needed to cook
- Sesame seeds, for topping
For the Amla Chutney:
- 2 large amlas, roughly chopped
- 5 garlic cloves
- 2 green chillies
- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
Directions
- Grate the lauki and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine besan with hing, ajwain, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt.
- Add the grated lauki and mix well.
- Gradually add water, a little at a time, to create a thick yet pourable batter (like pancake batter).
- Mix in the fresh coriander leaves.
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan on low heat. Add a little oil.
- Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan and gently spread it into a small round chilla.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Cook on a low flame until the bottom is golden brown and crisp.
- Flip gently and cook the other side until done.
- Repeat for the remaining batter.
- For the amla chutney, in a blender, add chopped amla, garlic, green chillies, coriander, salt, and water.
- Blend until smooth and luscious. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
This chutney is tangy, refreshing, and full of antioxidants — the perfect companion to the soft, spiced chillas.
📝 Pro Tips:
- If your lauki releases too much water, reduce the added water accordingly.
- You can sneak in grated carrots or spinach for added nutrition.
- Store extra chutney in the fridge. It goes great with sandwiches and rice too.
✨ Save & Snack Smart
Now you’ve got yourself a protein-rich, veggie-packed snack that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Try these Lauki Besan Chillas the next time you’re craving something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Related Recipe: Oats Besan Chilla
