Vegetable Savory Pancakes (Cheela) – Indian Style

Step 1: Prepare the Batter Base

Take a bowl and pour 1 cup of lukewarm water into it. Gradually add approximately 1 cup of all-purpose flour (Maida Ya aata) while continuously mixing to ensure there are no lumps and the batter is thin and has a flowing consistency.

Step 2: Add Spices

Add salt to taste (approximately 1/2 tsp), 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp red chili flakes (Kutti Laal Mirch), 1/2 tsp coriander powder (Dhania), 1/3 tbsp cinnamon powder (Darchini), 1 tsp cumin seeds (Zeera), and a pinch of carom seeds (Ajwain) to the batter. Mix all the ingredients well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables

Add 2 tbsp of grated capsicum (Shimla Mirch), 1 small sliced onion (Piyaz), 2 tbsp of grated carrot (Gajar), 1/2 cup of fresh chopped coriander leaves (Hara Dhania), and 1 chopped red chili (optional) to the batter. Mix well to distribute the vegetables evenly.

Step 4: Add Gramflour and Final Mix

Add 1 tbsp of gramflour (Besan) to the batter and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is ready.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a pan and grease it with oil using a brush. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it gently to form a round pancake. Cook on medium-high flame. Carefully flip the pancake after 3-4 minutes or until light brown, and cook the other side until it is also light brown and cooked through. Repeat for the remaining batter.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, roll the pancake and cut it into small pieces as shown. Serve the vegetable savory pancakes hot with yogurt (Dehi) or your preferred dipping sauce.

• Ensure the batter is lump-free for a smooth consistency.

• Cook the pancakes on a medium-high flame to achieve a light brown and crispy texture.

• Adjust the amount of red chili flakes and chopped red chili according to your spice preference.

• Experiment with other finely chopped vegetables like cabbage, spinach, or corn.

• Serve with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or any sauce of your choice instead of yogurt.