Winter Special Bajra And Methi Chilla For Nutritious Treat

Winter season brings with it chilly winds, cozy blankets, and a craving for warm and comforting food. While indulging in heavy and rich dishes may seem tempting, it is important to incorporate nutritious options in our meals, especially during the winter months. One such dish that fits perfectly in this category is the Bajra and Methi Chilla.

What is Bajra and Methi Chilla?

Bajra and Methi Chilla is a traditional Indian delicacy that is prepared using bajra flour (Pearl millet) and fresh fenugreek leaves. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast item or as a snack. This dish is popular in the northern region of India, where winters are known to be harsh and people prefer warming and nourishing dishes to battle the cold.

Nutritional Benefits

The Bajra and Methi Chilla is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that are vital for our overall health. Let’s take a look at some of its nutritional benefits:

• Bajra flour is a rich source of iron, calcium, and B vitamins. Therefore, it helps in improving hemoglobin levels and boosting immunity.
• Fenugreek leaves are known to be loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are also considered beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation in the body.
• The combination of these two ingredients makes Bajra and Methi Chilla a perfect dish for those seeking to include more fiber, protein and micronutrients in their diet.

How to Prepare Bajra and Methi Chilla

Now that we know the amazing health benefits of this dish, let’s learn how to prepare it.

1. In a mixing bowl, take 1 cup bajra flour, ¼ cup gram flour, and ¼ cup wheat flour. Mix them well.
2. Add 1 cup of finely chopped fresh fenugreek leaves to the flour mixture.
3. Now, add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 finely chopped green chili, ½ tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, ½ tsp cumin powder, ½ tsp garam masala, and salt to taste.
4. Slowly add water to the mixture and mix well to form a smooth and consistent batter.
5. Allow the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the flavors to blend together and make the chillas more delicious.
6. Heat a non-stick pan and pour a ladle full of batter on it. Spread it evenly to make a round circle.
7. Drizzle some oil on the sides and cook the chilla on medium flame. Once one side is cooked, flip it and cook the other side.
8. Repeat the process for the rest of the batter.
9. Your Bajra and Methi Chilla is ready to be served hot.

Serving Suggestions

Bajra and Methi Chilla tastes best when served hot with spicy chutney or a dollop of butter. You can also serve it with yogurt or pickle for a tangy twist. It can be enjoyed as a healthy breakfast option with a cup of hot tea or as a snack during tea time.

Variations

While the traditional version of Bajra and Methi Chilla is delicious, you can also experiment with different ingredients to add your own creative touch to the dish. Here are some variations that you can try:

• Instead of gram flour, you can use besan flour (chickpea flour) for a nutty flavor.
• Add grated vegetables like carrot, zucchini, or cabbage to make it more nutritious and colorful.
• You can use leftover cooked bajra or rice to the batter to give it a twist.
• Try adding a spoonful of homemade paneer to the batter for a protein boost.

Why Choose Bajra and Methi Chilla over Other Winter Delicacies?

The combination of bajra and fenugreek leaves makes this dish a perfect winter treat. While most winter dishes are loaded with unhealthy and calorie-dense ingredients, Bajra and Methi Chilla is a