Besan chilla, or gram flour pancake, is a stated Indian breakfast and snack which tastes great and is also really nutritious. Besan chilla is high in protein and fibre with some vitamins and has gained popularity among athletes or health-conscious consumers. The most common question about besan chilla is its calorie count.
In this article we will look at besan chilla calories considering its nutritional value, health benefits and place in the daily diet.
Besan Chilla Calories
Besan chilla is a savory pancake made from besan (gram flour), water and a variety of spices. You will typically find chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies,coriander leaves, even grated carrots or spinach in the batter, to add flavor and nutrition. Besan chilla is splashed onto a non-stick pan with a little oil to complete an easy, light and satisfying offering any time of day. In this article other than discussing besan chilla calories, we will also mention its health benefits and cooking method.
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Breakdown of Besan Chilla Calories
In case you are monitoring your caloric intake, knowing how many calories are in a food item is crucial. Generally, one medium-sized besan chilla (about 100 grams) made with minimum oil has approximately 130 to 150 calories. The breakdown of calories is as follows:
- Besan (gram flour) – 1/2 cup (around 60 grams): 220 calories
- Onion, Tomato, and other Vegetables (1/4 cup all combined): 15-20 calories
- Your spices (turmeric, chili powder, etc.): negligible
- Oil used for cooking (1 teaspoon): 40-45 calories
Therefore, when considered in terms of 2-3 medium sized chillas, the overall calories that accused 130-150 calories belong to each chilla depending on the amount of oil used the vegetables added, or when given almost no oil or possibly made in a non-stick and or air fryer the calories can be greatly reduced.
Health Advantages of Besan Chilla
Now that we’ve discussed besan chilla calories, let’s explore why this dish is a great addition to your meal plan:
- High Protein Content: Besan made of chickpeas is a legume that is naturally high in plant-based protein. As a result, besan chilla is a great option for vegetarians and vegans wanting to increase their protein intake.
- High in Fiber: Gram flour has soluble fiber that helps you digest food better, improves gut health, and provides a feeling of fullness which stops you from overeating (also helping with weight management).
- Low Glycemic Index: Besan has a low glycemic index which means it slowly releases sugar into the bloodstream. This is particularly beneficial for those with diabetes or those who want to keep the energy steady throughout the day.
- Heart Healthy: Besan has low cholesterol and is high in healthy fats to maintain heart health. Be sure to keep its health in check by limiting your oil usage while cooking.
How to make low-calorie besan chilla?Â
If you are watching your weight or trying to cut calories, here are some tips on how to count your besan chilla calories smartly:
- Use little oil – when cooking the chilla, you can use a non-stick pan or brush just a little oil on it. You could even use an air fryer.
- Add vegetables – add low-calorie vegetables, like spinach, capsicum, tomatoes, and onions to your chilla. This adds volume and increases your fiber and micronutrients but not many calories.
- Don’t stuff it with cheese or paneer – while cheese or paneer will make it taste better, they increase the calories.
- Pair it wisely – instead of eating your chilla with butter or ghee, consider a pairing of low-fat curd or mint chutney as a side.
Besan Chila and Weight LossÂ
- Although besan chilla is high in protein and fiber, it is a great food for someone who is trying to lose weight. The protein helps you build and repair your muscles while also keeping you feeling full longer, and the fiber keeps you feeling full longer to reduce your desire to snack in between meals. By counting your besan chilla calories smartly, you can enjoy a filling and flavorful meal without sacrificing your diet goals.
- Not only is besan chilla flavorsome and easy to prepare, it’s made with great ingredients. If you are looking for healthy alternatives and still enjoy a delicious meal, besan chilla is a good go to option. Besan chilla has approximately 130–150 calories per chilla, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. It can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner.
One thing you want to really pay attention to is the ingredients you put into your chilla and also the cooking method.
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Remember, it’s not just the besan chilla calories you are conscious about, it’s the overall quality of your meals. When made right, besan chilla will be a nutrient dense option for your life, and fuel and nourish your body in a delicious way.
