Recipe · Breakfast

High-protein besan chilla

A besan chilla is one of the easiest high-protein Indian breakfasts you can make. Besan (gram flour) is naturally higher in protein than most breakfast staples, so this simple dish keeps you full for hours and is gentle on your blood sugar. Perfect for PCOS mornings.

Reviewed by Dr. Snehal AdsuleLast reviewed July 2026
⏱ 15 min 🍽 Serves 2 Indian vegetariangluten-free

Ingredients

  • 1 cup besan (gram flour)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, finely chopped
  • Handful of chopped spinach or coriander
  • 1 green chilli, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • Water, to make a pourable batter
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons oil, for cooking

Method

  1. In a bowl, mix the besan with turmeric, salt, and enough water to make a smooth, pourable batter, a little thinner than idli batter.
  2. Stir in the onion, tomato, greens and green chilli.
  3. Heat a non-stick tawa on medium and brush with a little oil.
  4. Pour a ladle of batter and spread into a round, like a dosa.
  5. Cook until the base is golden, flip, and cook the other side.
  6. Serve hot with green chutney and a bowl of curd.

A besan chilla is one of the easiest high-protein Indian breakfasts you can make. Besan (gram flour) is naturally higher in protein than most breakfast staples, so this simple dish keeps you full for hours and is gentle on your blood sugar. Perfect for PCOS mornings.

Why it helps

Besan is rich in protein and fibre, which slows down how quickly your meal raises blood sugar. Loading it with vegetables adds even more fibre and volume. Compared with plain toast or a plain paratha, this chilla gives you far steadier energy through the morning. More high-protein foods

Ingredients (serves 2)

  • 1 cup besan (gram flour)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small tomato, finely chopped
  • Handful of chopped spinach or coriander
  • 1 green chilli, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • Water, to make a pourable batter
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons oil, for cooking

Method

  1. In a bowl, mix the besan with turmeric, salt, and enough water to make a smooth, pourable batter, a little thinner than idli batter.
  2. Stir in the onion, tomato, greens and green chilli.
  3. Heat a non-stick tawa on medium and brush with a little oil.
  4. Pour a ladle of batter and spread into a round, like a dosa.
  5. Cook until the base is golden, flip, and cook the other side.
  6. Serve hot with green chutney and a bowl of curd.

Make it your own

  • Add grated carrot, capsicum or paneer for extra nutrition.
  • Add a spoon of curd to the batter for softness.
  • Serve with an extra bowl of curd to push the protein even higher.

Enjoy it as part of the CurviCare Plate, or see more PCOS meal ideas.

Also in: PCOS, High protein, Under 15 minutes, Gluten free

Beyond the recipe

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Recipes are for general guidance and are not medical advice or a personalised diet plan. Portions and ingredients should be adjusted to your own needs. If you have a medical condition, please check with your doctor or dietitian before making major changes.