Myanmar Chickpea Flour Pancakes
Besan Gyi
Besan Gyi are savory, thin pancakes made from chickpea flour, often enjoyed as a street food snack or light meal. They are typically flavored with onions, chili, and sometimes herbs, offering a delightful crispy texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Chickpea flour (Besan)
- 1.5 cups Water(adjust for desired batter consistency)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1-2 Green chilies(finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Cilantro(chopped)
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 2-3 tbsp Vegetable oil(for cooking)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, turmeric powder, and salt.
💡 Tip: Ensure no lumps in the flour. - 2
Gradually add water while whisking continuously to form a smooth, thin batter. The consistency should be like crepe batter.
- 3
Stir in the chopped onion, green chilies, and cilantro into the batter.
- 4
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add about 1-2 teaspoons of oil.
- 5
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot skillet, spreading it thinly into a round pancake.
💡 Tip: Aim for a thin, even layer for crispiness. - 6
Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to crisp and bubbles appear on the surface.
- 7
Flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- 8
Remove from skillet and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.
💡 Tip: Keep cooked pancakes warm while preparing the rest.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, a pinch of asafoetida (hing) can be added to the batter.
- ✓Serve hot with a side of tamarind chutney or a spicy dipping sauce.
- ✓Adjust the amount of green chilies to your preferred spice level.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely grated carrots or spinach to the batter for added nutrition and color.
- Incorporate a small amount of finely chopped garlic or ginger.
- Some variations include a sprinkle of cumin seeds in the batter.