Besan Chila Recipe for Diabetes
Besan Chilla for Diabetes: A Healthy and Delicious Breakfast Choice
Living with diabetes means being mindful of every meal. The goal is to manage blood glucose levels throughout the day, and diet plays a major role in this. Choosing the right ingredients can help prevent blood sugar spikes and also support long-term metabolic health. Among the many options suitable for diabetic-friendly eating, besan chilla stands out as a nutritious and delicious choice.
Many people believe that avoiding grains completely is the only way to manage diabetes. While grains are high in carbohydrates, dals or lentils are comparatively lower and offer more proteins. If grains contain almost 80% sugar content, dals are around 60%. That is why diabetics are encouraged to replace or reduce grains and include more dal-based foods in their meals. One such wholesome dish is the besan chilla. Also called dal chilla, it is like a savory pancake commonly enjoyed across India for breakfast or evening snacks.
Why Besan Is a Smart Choice for Type 2 Diabetics
The primary ingredient in besan chilla is besan, which is simply flour made from chickpeas (also known as chana dal). It is one of the best sources of plant-based protein, making it ideal for people who need slow-release energy without spiking sugar levels. Besan is also rich in:
- B-complex vitamins
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Dietary fiber
The high-fiber content plays a crucial role in slowing down glucose absorption in the bloodstream. This helps prevent sudden surges in sugar after meals. That is why many nutrition experts and individuals with type 2 diabetes consider besan a superfood for sugar control.
Another benefit is that besan helps keep you fuller for longer. This prevents overeating and supports weight management — a key factor in diabetes reversal and reduction of insulin resistance.
FFD-Style Besan Chilla: A Perfect Blend of Taste and Health
At Freedom From Diabetes (FFD), recipes are designed to support natural diabetes reversal. The FFD-style besan chilla includes the goodness of chickpea flour and the high-fiber hydration provided by dudhi (bottle gourd), along with herbs and spices that aid digestion and metabolism. It is light, grain-free, and an easy way to start the day with stable energy.
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Indian
Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5–10 minutes
Servings: 1–2
Ingredients to Prepare Besan Chilla
- Besan – 1 cup
- Grated dudhi (bottle gourd) – ½ cup
- Green chilli paste – 1 tsp
- Red chilli powder – ½ tsp
- Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
- Ajwain – ¼ tsp
- Jeera powder – ¼ tsp
- Crushed whole coriander seeds – 2 tsp
- Freshly chopped coriander – ¼ cup
How to Make Diabetes-Friendly Besan Chilla (Step-by-Step)
Take besan, grated dudhi, chilli paste, turmeric, red chilli powder, ajwain, jeera powder, and crushed coriander seeds in a mixing bowl. Add chopped coriander for a fresh flavor. Now slowly pour water and stir until you get a smooth batter that has the same consistency as dhokla batter — neither too thick nor too runny.
Heat a non-stick tawa on medium flame. Brush very little oil on the surface — just enough to keep the batter from sticking. Take one full ladle of batter, pour it in the center, and gently spread it into a circular shape.
Cover the chilla and let it cook well from the bottom. Once the lower side turns golden brown, flip and allow the other side to cook. When both sides are crispy and cooked evenly, remove from the tawa and serve hot.
This chilla can be enjoyed with green chutney, tomato salsa, or plain homemade curd based on dietary needs.
A Tasty and Smart Addition to a Diabetic Meal Plan
A recipe that scores in both taste and health always becomes a favorite — and besan chilla wins easily in both aspects. With no grains involved, this becomes an ideal breakfast option, especially for diabetics aiming to reduce dependence on medicines. It is light, nutritious, keeps hunger controlled, and does not overload the body with carbohydrates first thing in the morning.
If you enjoy trying new diabetes-friendly recipes, FFD has a whole range of smart meal ideas that help transform lifestyle and support diabetes reversal. You can also explore wholesome Indian favorites like diabetes-friendly Thepla and many more on the FFD Recipes section.
FFD’s approach to diabetes is based on customization because every individual’s needs are different. Our One-Year Intensive Reversal Program (IRP) has already helped 11,000+ people achieve freedom from medicines and insulin — and the journey is still growing strong. With guidance, support, and healthy recipes like this one, transformation becomes simpler and joyful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is besan chilla good for diabetics?
Yes, it is rich in fiber which helps slow down sugar absorption and supports stable glucose levels.
How do I make a diabetes-friendly besan chilla?
Use besan with grated bottle gourd, cooling spices, and minimal oil. Spread the batter on a hot tawa and cook both sides evenly.
Can I eat besan chilla every day if I have diabetes?
Yes, you can. Just maintain portion control and balance your meals with vegetables and protein sources to support overall health.
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https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/besan-chila-recipe/1409