Besan, also known as gram flour, is a type of flour made from ground dried chickpeas (chana dal). It is a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine, known for its nutty flavour, binding properties, and versatility in a wide range of savoury and sweet dishes. It is naturally gluten-free, making it a popular alternative to wheat flour.
How is Besan Made?
Besan is traditionally made from split brown chickpeas (kala chana) that have been hulled and split to make chana dal. The process is simple:
- Cleaning and Splitting: Whole brown chickpeas are cleaned and the husk is removed. They are then split to get chana dal.
- Roasting (Optional): Sometimes, the chana dal is lightly roasted to enhance its nutty flavour and aroma.
- Grinding: The dal is then ground into a fine, pale yellow powder. The texture can range from very fine to slightly coarse depending on its intended use.
It’s important to note that besan made from chana dal is different from chickpea flour made from whole white chickpeas (kabuli chana), which is more common in Western countries. Besan has a finer texture and a more earthy flavour.
The Many Uses of Besan in Indian Cuisine
Besan is an incredibly versatile ingredient used across India in various forms.
- As a Batter: It is most famously used to create a batter for deep-frying. Pakoras (vegetable fritters), bhajis, and bondas are all made by dipping vegetables or other items in a spiced besan batter.
- In Curries and Gravies: Besan is used as a thickening agent in gravies for dishes like ‘kadhi’ and ‘gatte ki sabzi’. It adds a creamy texture and nutty taste.
- In Breads and Pancakes: It is the main ingredient in savoury pancakes like ‘cheela’ (a popular breakfast item) and is used in some flatbreads like ‘missi roti’ when mixed with wheat flour.
- In Sweets: Besan is the star of many famous Indian sweets (mithai). ‘Besan Ladoo’, ‘Mysore Pak’, and ‘Besan Barfi’ are all made by roasting besan in ghee with sugar.
- As a Binder: It is used as a binding agent in kebabs, koftas, and vegetarian cutlets to hold the ingredients together.
Health and Skin Benefits of Besan
Beyond its culinary uses, besan is prized for its nutritional value and its benefits in traditional skincare routines.
| Nutrient | Approximate Value | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 22 g | Excellent source of plant-based protein, good for muscle repair and growth. |
| Fibre | 11 g | Aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in managing blood sugar levels. |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g | Rich in complex carbs, providing sustained energy. Has a lower glycemic index than wheat flour. |
| Iron | 4.9 mg | Helps in preventing anemia and improving hemoglobin levels. |
| Magnesium | 166 mg | Important for muscle and nerve function, and blood pressure regulation. |
For Skin Care:
Besan has been used for centuries in India as a natural cleanser and skin treatment.
- Exfoliation: It acts as a gentle, natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
- Tan Removal: A paste of besan, curd, and a pinch of turmeric is a popular home remedy for removing sun tan.
- Oil Control: It helps in absorbing excess oil from the skin, making it beneficial for people with acne-prone skin.
- Skin Brightening: Regular use of a besan face pack can help in improving complexion and giving the skin a natural glow.
From being a key ingredient in dishes made with other healthy flours like khapli wheat to its use in simple home remedies, besan is a true powerhouse in Indian households. It is a simple yet vital ingredient that showcases the richness of Indian food culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is besan in English?
In English, besan is most commonly known as gram flour. It is also sometimes referred to as chickpea flour, although it is specifically made from split brown chickpeas (chana dal), not whole white chickpeas.
Is besan healthy to eat daily?
Yes, besan is very healthy. It is rich in protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, and is gluten-free. Incorporating it into your daily diet in moderation, in dishes like cheela or roti, can be very beneficial for health, especially for managing blood sugar levels.
Is besan and chana dal atta the same?
Yes, besan and chana dal atta are essentially the same. Besan is the Hindi word for the flour made from grinding chana dal (split, husked brown chickpeas). They are just different names for the same product.
Can besan be used for face packs?
Absolutely. Besan is a very popular ingredient for homemade face packs in India. It is used for exfoliation, oil control, tan removal, and general skin brightening. It is often mixed with ingredients like curd, milk, turmeric, or rose water.
Is besan good for weight loss?
Besan can be a good addition to a weight loss diet. Its high protein and fibre content help you feel full for longer, reducing overall calorie intake. Its lower glycemic index compared to wheat flour also helps in better blood sugar control.