Traditional Indian Puda: A Complete Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup gram flour (Besan)
1/4 cup wheat flour
1/2 cup yogurt
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
1 tablespoon finely chopped green chilies
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon baking powder
Extra oil for cooking the pudas

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix together gram flour, wheat flour, yogurt, water, and 1 tablespoon of oil until it forms a smooth batter. The batter should be of pouring consistency, not too thick or thin.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, salt, chopped coriander leaves, green chilies, grated ginger, chopped onion, and baking powder to the batter. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined.
Let the batter rest for around 15 minutes.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and brush it lightly with oil.
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it into a thin layer, like a pancake. Cook for a couple of minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
Flip the puda with a spatula and cook the other side until it is also golden brown. Brush the top with a little oil if needed.
Remove the puda from the pan and keep it warm. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Once all pudas are cooked, serve them hot with a side of chutney or yogurt.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - For mixing the batter and ingredients
Non-stick Pan - To cook the pudas
Spatula - For flipping and removing the pudas from the pan
Ladle - To pour and spread the batter on the pan
Brush - To lightly oil the pan while cooking the pudas

Recipe variations

Adding vegetables like grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or bell peppers to the batter for a vegetable puda variation.
Replacing gram flour with chickpea flour for a slightly different flavor.
Including grated cheese to the batter for a cheesy puda option.
Using whole wheat flour instead of wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Adding cooked and crumbled tofu or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a protein-rich puda.
Experimenting with different spices and herbs like coriander powder, garam masala, or fenugreek leaves to enhance the flavor.
Making a sweet version of puda by adding sugar, cardamom powder, and nuts to the batter.
Using gluten-free flours like almond flour or rice flour for a gluten-free puda option.
Making the puda thinner and crispier by spreading the batter thinly on the pan.
Using coconut milk instead of yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.

Recipe overview

Puda, also known as Besan Chilla, is a savory and nutritious pancake originating from Indian cuisine. Made primarily from gram flour, wheat flour and yogurt, the batter for Puda is spiced with turmeric, red chili powder and cumin. It is then enhanced with the fresh flavors of coriander leaves, green chilies, and grated ginger. A generous amount of finely chopped onion adds a delightful crunch to each bite. These pancakes are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. They make for a perfect breakfast or snack, providing a good balance of protein and fiber to kick start your day. The recipe is also easily customizable; you can add your choice of vegetables or spices for variety. Once you have prepared the batter, it's as simple as cooking on a pan until each side is golden brown. Serve hot with a side of chutney or yogurt for a satisfying and wholesome meal. This Puda recipe makes for a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on taste.

Common questions

Can I substitute gram flour with any other flour?
Yes, you can substitute gram flour with chickpea flour or all-purpose flour if needed.
Can I make the batter in advance and store it?
It is best to make the batter fresh and use it immediately for the best results. However, you can store the batter in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Can I make the pudas without adding onions or green chilies?
Yes, you can omit onions or green chilies if you prefer a milder flavor. It will still turn out delicious.
Can I make the pudas gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the pudas gluten-free by substituting wheat flour with a gluten-free flour like rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use oil other than the one mentioned in the recipe?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil for cooking the pudas.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the batter and ingredients.
Non-Stick Pan - A pan with a non-stick surface to cook the pudas.
Spatula - A flat utensil used to flip and remove the pudas from the pan.
Ladle - A spoon-like utensil used to pour the batter onto the pan.
Brush - A brush to lightly coat the pan with oil.
Chopping Board - A flat surface for chopping onions, coriander leaves, and green chilies.
Knife - A sharp tool to chop onions, coriander leaves, and green chilies.

Origin stories

Puda, a savory pancake originating from the western region of Gujarat in India, is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Traditionally made with gram flour and an assortment of spices, it is a staple in Gujarati homes. The humble Puda takes on a different avatar during the nine-day festival of Navaratri, where it is cooked over an open flame in large quantities to feed the guests who come to dance the traditional Garba. A bite into this crispy pancake is a journey into the heart of Gujarat, with its warm hospitality and rich culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.