Besan Rolls Recipe- Authentic Indian Gram Flour Snack with Mustard Seeds

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Besan Rolls Recipe – Authentic Indian Gram Flour Snack with Mustard Seeds

Introduction

Oh, these Besan Rolls! They’re one of those snacks that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor, they were always a hit during family gatherings. I first made these myself when I was trying to recreate those childhood memories, and honestly, it took a few tries to get them just right. But trust me, the effort is SO worth it. This recipe is for those perfectly golden, delightfully textured Besan Rolls – a classic Indian snack that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t just any snack; they’re a little piece of Indian culinary tradition. They’re quick to whip up (perfect for those unexpected guests!), incredibly satisfying, and packed with a unique blend of flavors. Plus, the tempering adds such a lovely aromatic touch. You’ll love how easily they come together and how much everyone enjoys them!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Besan Rolls:

• 1 cup Besan/Chickpea (Gram) Flour
• 2 cups Buttermilk (1 cup yogurt + 1 cup water)
• 1/8 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 pinch Asafoetida (Hing)
• Salt to taste
• 4 tsp Oil (plus extra for spreading and tempering)
• 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
• 1 pinch Asafoetida (Hing)
• 2 Green Chillies (cut lengthwise)
• 1 Tbsp Grated Coconut
• Cilantro (Coriander) for garnishing

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little tips can make all the difference!

Besan/Chickpea (Gram) Flour: Types and Quality

Using good quality besan is key. You want a bright yellow flour that smells fresh. There are different grinds available; a finer grind will give you a smoother roll. Roughly 125g of besan is equivalent to 1 cup.

Buttermilk: Traditional vs. Store-Bought

Traditionally, buttermilk in India is the leftover liquid from churning butter (called mattha). It has a slightly tangy flavor. If you can’t find that, a mix of 1 cup yogurt and 1 cup water works beautifully! Just whisk it well. About 480ml is equivalent to 2 cups.

Turmeric Powder: Benefits and Varieties

Turmeric isn’t just for color; it adds a lovely earthy flavor and is packed with health benefits! Use a good quality turmeric powder for the best results.

Asafoetida (Hing): A Unique Spice & Its Uses

Asafoetida has a…distinct smell! Don’t let that put you off. When cooked, it transforms into a savory, umami-rich flavor that’s essential in many Indian dishes. A little goes a long way.

Regional Variations in Besan Roll Seasoning

While mustard seeds and asafoetida are classic, some families add a pinch of red chili powder to the tempering for extra heat. Others like to sprinkle a little chaat masala on top for a tangy kick!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the besan, buttermilk, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and salt until you have a smooth batter. No lumps allowed!
2. Microwave uncovered for 1.5 minutes. Give it a good stir to break up any lumps.
3. Repeat microwaving in 1.5-minute intervals, stirring after each cycle (total 4.5 minutes). If the batter is still lumpy, use a hand blender for a super smooth consistency.
4. Quickly spread thin layers of the batter onto aluminum foil sheets using a spatula. The thinner, the crispier!
5. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes until it sets. Then, carefully cut into 1-1.5 inch wide strips.
6. Gently roll each strip into a tight spiral. Arrange these beautiful spirals on a serving platter.
7. Now for the magic! Heat oil in a small pan. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the asafoetida and green chilies. Cook for a few seconds, and immediately drizzle this tempering over the rolls.
8. Finish with a sprinkle of grated coconut and fresh cilantro. Serve at room temperature and enjoy!

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to help you nail this recipe:

Achieving the Perfect Roll Texture

The key is to microwave the batter just enough to cook it through, but not so much that it becomes rubbery. Keep a close eye on it!

Preventing Sticking & Ensuring Smooth Spreading

Lightly grease the aluminum foil with oil before spreading the batter. This will prevent sticking and make rolling much easier.

Mastering the Tempering Process

Be careful when tempering the mustard seeds – they can pop! Keep the heat medium and don’t walk away. The tempering should be hot when you drizzle it over the rolls.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Besan Rolls

Simply substitute the buttermilk with plant-based yogurt mixed with water. Almond or soy yogurt work well.

Gluten-Free Confirmation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as besan is a gluten-free flour.

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild, Medium, Hot)

Adjust the number of green chilies in the tempering to control the spice level. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the chilies.

Festival Adaptations (Diwali, Holi)

These rolls are a popular snack during Diwali and Holi! You can add a pinch of red chili powder to the batter for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

These Besan Rolls are fantastic on their own with a cup of chai. They also pair well with a side of green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Storage Instructions

These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispness, but will still be delicious!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best way to prevent the besan rolls from becoming rubbery?

Don’t overcook the batter in the microwave! Keep a close eye on it and stop when it’s just cooked through.

Can I make the batter ahead of time? If so, how should I store it?

You can make the batter a few hours ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might need to whisk it again before spreading.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

A mixture of 1 cup yogurt and 1 cup water works perfectly! You can also use lemon juice added to milk (about 1 tbsp lemon juice per cup of milk).

Is asafoetida essential for the flavor, or can I omit it?

Asafoetida adds a unique savory flavor, but if you absolutely can’t find it, you can omit it. The rolls will still be tasty, but they won’t have that signature depth of flavor.

How can I adjust the recipe to make a larger batch of besan rolls?

Simply double or triple the ingredients, keeping the ratios the same. You may need to microwave the batter in batches.