Recipe
Suji Chilla, also known as Semolina Pancake, is a popular Indian breakfast dish that is not only quick to make but also delicious and nutritious. It is a perfect way to start your day with a healthy meal, packed with fiber, proteins, and vitamins. The dish is made primarily with semolina (suji), vegetables, and spices, making it a wholesome choice for breakfast. Suji Chilla can be served with chutney, yogurt, or even pickles for added flavor.
Ingredients for Suji Chilla:
- 1 cup suji (semolina)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tomato, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot, grated
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, add the suji (semolina) and the yogurt (if using). Mix well. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. You should aim for a batter that is slightly thick, similar to pancake batter consistency.
- Add Vegetables and Spices:
- To the batter, add the chopped onions, tomatoes, grated carrots, and green chilies. Sprinkle in the cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined. If the batter feels too thick, add a little more water to reach a smooth consistency.
- Cook the Chilla:
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan on medium heat. Once the pan is hot, lightly grease it with a little oil. Pour a ladleful of the prepared batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a round pancake. Cook on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to lift up and the bottom turns golden brown.
- Flip and Cook the Other Side:
- Once the bottom side is golden, flip the chilla over and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until both sides are crisp and golden. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, adding oil as needed for each chilla.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chillas from the pan and serve them hot. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. You can serve Suji Chilla with a side of green chutney, tamarind chutney, or a bowl of yogurt for added flavor.
Why Choose Suji Chilla for Breakfast?
- Quick and Easy to Make: Suji Chilla is a perfect choice for busy mornings. It comes together in less than 20 minutes, making it an ideal breakfast option for families or individuals on the go.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, proteins, and vitamins from the vegetables, Suji Chilla is a healthy and satisfying meal. It provides sustained energy, keeping you full for longer.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to add any other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to make it even more nutritious. You can also experiment with different spices to suit your taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you use gluten-free semolina (rava), this recipe can easily be made gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Suji Chilla is a versatile, tasty, and health-packed breakfast dish that can become a regular part of your morning routine. It’s not just easy to make, but you can also customize it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or something filling, Suji Chilla hits the mark every time. So, why not give this simple and delicious recipe a try for your next breakfast?
