Spinach Besan Rolls Recipe – Crispy & Flavorful Indian Snack

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Spinach Besan Rolls Recipe – Crispy & Flavorful Indian Snack

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a good snack. And not just any snack – something with a little bit of a kick, a satisfying crunch, and a whole lot of flavor. These Spinach Besan Rolls are exactly that! I first stumbled upon a version of this at a local street food stall, and I’ve been perfecting my own recipe ever since. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and honestly, they disappear in minutes at my place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average rolls. They’re a delightful blend of textures – soft spinach embracing a flavorful, crispy besan filling. Plus, they’re packed with goodness from the spinach and spices. They’re perfect for a rainy afternoon treat, a party appetizer, or just when you need a little something to brighten your day. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious rolls:

• 1 cup besan / gram flour
• ½ cup rice flour
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp chilli powder (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 2 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp ajwain / carom seeds
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 1 chilli, finely chopped
• ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
• 2 tsp oil (for the batter)
• As required water (for batter) – about ¾ to 1 cup
• 1 bunch palak / spinach
• As needed oil (for frying)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Besan / Gram Flour: Protein & Texture

Besan is the star here! It gives the rolls a lovely, slightly nutty flavor and a good dose of protein. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, and increasingly in well-stocked supermarkets.

Rice Flour: Achieving Crispness

Don’t skip the rice flour! It’s the secret to that incredible crispiness when you fry these up. It helps create a light and airy texture.

Turmeric: Flavor & Color Profile

Turmeric isn’t just about color; it adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices beautifully. Plus, it’s packed with health benefits!

Ajwain / Carom Seeds: Digestive Benefits & Unique Flavor

Ajwain has a really unique, slightly peppery flavor that’s so characteristic of Indian snacks. It’s also known for its digestive properties – perfect after a tasty treat!

Regional Variations in Spice Blends

Feel free to play around with the spices! Some families add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for extra flavor, or a dash of coriander powder for a more rounded taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get rolling (pun intended!).

1. In a large bowl, combine the besan and rice flour. This is our base, so make sure it’s well mixed.
2. Add the turmeric, chilli powder, sesame seeds, ajwain, and cumin to the flour mixture. Give it another good stir to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Now, mix in the ginger garlic paste, chopped chilli, salt, and oil. It’s starting to smell good already, right?
4. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and mix until you form a smooth, thick batter. It should be thick enough to coat the spinach leaves without running.
5. Lay out a large spinach leaf. Spread a thin layer of the besan batter over it.
6. Repeat with another spinach leaf on top, and another layer of batter. Continue layering until you’ve used at least 3 layers of batter and spinach.
7. Roll the layered leaves tightly to secure everything. You want a nice, firm roll.
8. Spread a very thin layer of batter over the roll. This helps it hold its shape during steaming.
9. Steam the rolls for about 15 minutes. This softens the spinach and sets the batter.
10. Let the rolls cool completely before slicing. This makes them easier to handle.
11. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Gently pan-fry the steamed rolls until they’re golden brown and crispy on all sides.
12. Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and serve warm! A little coconut chutney on the side is amazing if you like a bit of sweetness.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the rolls. If it’s not, they’ll absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• For a more even coating, you can lightly dust the spinach leaves with rice flour before applying the batter.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your oil for frying.
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is gluten-free as long as your besan and rice flour are certified gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Spicy): Adjust the amount of chilli powder to your liking. Start with ½ tsp for a mild flavor, and add more if you prefer it spicier. My husband loves it with a full tablespoon!
• Festival Adaptations (Diwali, Holi): These rolls are a fantastic addition to any festive spread. They’re especially popular during Diwali and Holi.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a side of:

• Coconut chutney
• Mint-coriander chutney
• Sweet tamarind chutney
• A cup of hot chai!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? (If there are any!) Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

FAQs

What is the best way to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?

Make sure the oil is hot enough when frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, letting the steamed rolls cool completely before frying helps.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You might need to add a little water to thin it out before using.

What other greens can I use besides spinach?

You can experiment with other greens like mustard greens (sarson ka saag) or fenugreek leaves (methi). Just be aware that the flavor will change.

Is ajwain essential for the flavor, or can I substitute it?

Ajwain adds a very unique flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute with a pinch of fennel seeds or caraway seeds. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

How can I adjust the crispiness level when frying?

Fry for a longer time on medium-low heat for maximum crispiness. Be careful not to burn them!

Enjoy these Spinach Besan Rolls! I hope they bring a little bit of Indian sunshine to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments how they turn out for you!