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Cabbage Chilla, savory Indian pancake served with chutney
Crispy Cabbage Chilla with fresh cilantro

Savory Cabbage and Chickpea Flour Pancakes (Chilla)

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Side Dishes
'Chilla' (or Besan Puda) is North India's answer to the savory pancake, replacing eggs with protein-rich chickpea flour. This cabbage version is a play on textures: the flour batter is soft and nutty, while the cabbage caramelizes in the heat, retaining a sweet crunch. Eaten as an energy-packed breakfast or a light dinner when you crave something warm but not heavy.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 15 mins
⌛ Total Time 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 285 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Indian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For lump-free batter.
  • Non-stick Skillet: For frying with less oil.
  • Grater: For prepping cabbage.

Instructions

1 ✓

Grate the cabbage coarsely, sprinkle with half the salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Then squeeze out moisture thoroughly.

Tip: Salt draws water out (osmosis), preventing the pancake from getting soggy during cooking.
2 ✓

Finely chop onion, chili, and cilantro; crush the garlic.

Tip: Finely chopped vegetables integrate better into the batter and won't fall out when flipping.
3 ✓

In a bowl, whisk chickpea flour with cumin, remaining salt, and water until you get a thick pancake batter consistency.

Tip: Add water gradually to avoid lumps.
4 ✓

Fold in the squeezed cabbage, onion, garlic, chili, and cilantro.

Tip: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to hydrate the flour.
5 ✓

Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Ladle batter into the center and spread into a 1/4-inch thick circle with the back of the spoon.

Tip: Don't make it too thick, or the center will remain raw.
6 ✓

Cook for 3-4 minutes until edges brown and lift from the pan. Brush top with oil, flip, and cook the other side until golden.

Tip: Once the first side sets, you can press down on the pancake to ensure even browning.

Recipe FAQ

Why did it tear when flipping?
The batter was likely too thin or you flipped too early. Wait for a stable golden crust to form on the bottom.
Can I use wheat flour?
The authentic taste and texture come from chickpea flour (Besan); wheat flour makes it gluey.

Ingredients

  • 7 oz Green Cabbage (approx. 1/4 head, shredded)
  • 1 cup Chickpea Flour (Besan)
  • 0.66 cup Cold Water
  • 1 small Red Onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 whole Green Chili (e.g. Serrano)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying)