Two-grain mini desi pancakes (chillas)

Crispy, healthy mini pancakes coming up! Photo courtesy: Tanya Munshi

When you want to break away from the ordinary, you enjoy life better. A change is always good, whether it is a holiday, a break from the usual household chores or our hectic work schedules. The same goes for food.

Here’s my attempt to rev up a regular mundane breakfast or evening snacking routine. Please note, this is not my original recipe, it is something that I have tried and tested in my kitchen to feed a fussy kid. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings. This also serves as an ideal no-guilt snacking option to douse our 4pm hunger pangs.

This chilla (pancake) is a beautiful blend of urad dal and green moong dal, which has been soaked for a few hours and blended with a piece of ginger, green chili, coriander and mint leaves. Urad dal is rich in protein and fibre, while green moong dal is a good source of antioxidants. Ginger and green chilies add a kick of flavour and boost metabolism, while coriander and mint leaves provide freshness and aid digestion. 

Make fresh batter every few days and you’re good to go! Photo courtesy: Tanya Munshi

Then, whenever I want to make a chilla or mini multi-grain (a fancier term) pancakes, I either use a large pan or this cute four-in-one pan that lets me make mini chillas.

I add a pinch of hing, rock salt, and sooji to get a crispy texture. I drop dollops of the batter in the pan coated with sesame oil and sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves, green chilies (optional), a pinch of degi mirch (optional), and chaat masala; and you’re done.

This is, any day, a healthier alternative to those mundane breakfast or snacking options done in minutes, provided you have the batter ready at home.

Devour warm with a drizzle of sweet tamarind sauce and mint and coriander chutney, and you’re sorted for the day. 

Serve up desi pancakes in style. Photo courtesy: Tanya Munshi

It is worth mentioning that these mini chillas have been plated on ceramic stoneware serving bowls that I purchased from Serene Spaces Decor. The serving bowls add a hint of charm to my dining experience even when I’m having a meal all by myself.