Hi! Here's a native-style recipe for making Pithalu, also known as Besan Chilla or Gram Flour Pancakes:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of besan (gram flour)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your taste)
- A pinch of turmeric powder
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
- Oil or ghee, for cooking
Instructions:
- Mixing it Up: In a mixing bowl, toss in that besan (gram flour). Add in the chopped onion, tomato, coriander leaves, and green chilies. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, a pinch of asafoetida, and some salt.
- Getting the Batter Right: Gradually pour in some water and start whisking it all together. You're aiming for a batter that's smooth and flowing, not too thick and not too thin. It's all about that perfect pancake consistency.
- Time to Cook: Heat up a tawa or a non-stick pan over medium heat. Drop a bit of oil or ghee and spread it around.
- Pour and Swirl: Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the hot tawa. Use the back of the ladle to gently spread it out in a circular motion. You want a thin pancake, just like a crepe.
- Golden Goodness: Let it cook for a couple of minutes until the bottom turns golden-brown and crispy.
- Flip It: Carefully flip the pithalu using a spatula. Let the other side cook until it's nice and golden too.
- Serve with a Smile: Slide the cooked pithalu onto a plate. You can fold it or roll it up if you're feeling fancy. Serve it hot with your favorite chutney, yogurt, or even some spicy pickle.
And there you have it, a plateful of delicious Pithalu, ready to be savored! Enjoy these gram flour pancakes for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you're craving a tasty treat.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings as per your taste. Cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own!