Healthy Breakfast Series | Recipe: Moringa Leaf Chilla

Prep Time: 10 mins| Cook Time: 10 mins | Serves: 2

🧺 Ingredients

• 1 cup besan (gram flour)
• ½ cup finely chopped moringa (drumstick) leaves
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
• ¾ cup water (adjust for a smooth, pourable batter)
• 1 tbsp curd (optional) – adds softness and tang
• Oil or ghee, for cooking

🥣 Instructions

Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, add besan, turmeric, ajwain, jeera, and salt.
2. Slowly pour in water while whisking to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Stir in chopped moringa leaves, onion, and green chilli.
4. If using curd, mix it in now for a softer chilla texture.

Heat the Pan

1. Grease a non-stick tawa or iron pan with a few drops of oil or ghee.
2. Once hot, pour a ladleful of batter and spread it in a circular motion (like a dosa).

Cook the Chilla

1. Drizzle a little oil around the edges.
2. Cook on medium flame for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
3. Flip and cook the other side till lightly browned.

Serve Hot

1. Serve immediately with mint chutney, curd, or a light tomato-onion chutney for a wholesome breakfast.

💡Tips & Variations

1. Replace besan with moong dal batter for extra protein.
2. Add grated carrot or beetroot for more colour and nutrients.
3. For a crispier version, mix a spoon of rice flour into the batter.
4. You can also air-fry small pancake versions as healthy snacks.

🌞 Why It Works for Breakfast

Moringa leaves provide iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while besan gives protein and fibre — making this chilla light yet filling. It helps kickstart metabolism, stabilises energy, and adds a wholesome Indian touch to your mornings.