Recipe Overview

Garari is a savoury gram flour pancake from Bhatia cuisine, similar in concept to

a traditional Indian chilla (or cheela). A chilla is an unleavened, protein-rich crepe

made from lentil or grain flours—most commonly gram flour (besan)—and is

often referred to as a “vegetarian omelette” due to its texture and preparation style.

Garari follows the same philosophy—quick to prepare, nutritious, and versatile—

making it an ideal light meal or accompaniment.

Recipe Details

– Cuisine: Indian / Sindhi–Bhatia

– Course: Snack / Accompaniment

– Diet: Vegetarian

– Servings: 2 – 3

– Preparation Time: 10 minutes

– Cooking Time: 15 minutes

– Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– Gram flour (besan) – ½ cup

– Water – approx. 30 ml.

– Green chillies – 2 nos.

– Ginger – ½” piece

– Salt – to taste

– Asafoetida – a pinch

– Coriander leaves (chopped) – 1 tblsp.

– Lime juice – from ½ lime

Optional Additions

– Tomato (finely chopped) – 1 medium

– Mint leaves (finely chopped) – 1 tblsp.

For Cooking

– Oil – 4 tblsp.

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

– In a bowl, mix gram flour, water and 1 tbsp. oil to form a smooth batter of

pouring consistency.

Step 2: Add Flavouring Ingredients

– Add finely chopped green chillies, ginger, coriander leaves, salt, asafoetida and lime juice.

– Add optional ingredients like tomato and mint if using.

– Mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Rest the Batter (Optional but Recommended)

– Allow the batter to rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps improve texture and allows the

flour to hydrate.

Step 4: Cook the Garari

– Heat a tawa or griddle on a medium flame and lightly grease it with oil.

– Pour half the batter and spread it evenly like a pancake.

Step 5: Cook Both Sides

– Drizzle oil around the edges and cook until golden brown.

– Flip and cook the other side till evenly done.

Step 6: Repeat

– Repeat the process with the remaining batter.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve hot or at room temperature

– Pair with Dharan ji Chutney – https://panjakhada.com/dharan-ji-chutney/

or tomato ketchup

– Can be served as a light dinner, breakfast, or accompaniment to meals

– Goes well with a cup of tea

Chef’s Tip

– Maintain a smooth, pourable batter similar to a dosa consistency

– Do not spread too thick—thin pancakes cook evenly and taste better

– Adding vegetables enhances both flavour and nutrition

Quick Preparation Tips

– Batter Consistency: Should be smooth and flowing, not too thick

– Resting Time: Resting improves texture and softness

– Add Vegetables: Carrots, capsicum, or spinach can be added for variation

– Cooking Heat: Medium heat ensures even cooking without burning

Variations

– A vegetable-rich version can be prepared by adding grated carrots, capsicum, spinach,

or cabbage to the batter, making the Garari more wholesome and colourful.

– For a more aromatic variation, add finely chopped mint leaves, curry leaves,

or fresh dill leaves along with the coriander.

– A spicier version can be made by increasing the quantity of green chillies or adding

a pinch of red chilli powder or crushed black pepper.

– For added richness, a tablespoon of thick curd may be mixed into the batter,

resulting in a softer texture.

– A mixed-flour variation can be prepared by replacing a portion of the gram flour with

whole wheat flour, millet flour, or rice flour, creating different textures and flavours.

– For a crispier Garari, spread the batter thinner and cook with a little extra oil

until golden and crunchy around the edges.

– A healthier variation can be cooked with minimal oil on a non-stick pan while

still retaining its characteristic flavour.

– Leftover cooked vegetables such as potatoes, peas, or sautéed greens can be mixed into

the batter, making Garari an excellent way to utilise surplus ingredients while creating

a hearty meal.

Nutritional Insight 

– High in plant-based protein due to gram flour

– Naturally gluten-free

– Rich in fibre and keeps you full for longer

– Suitable for light and balanced meals

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

– Best consumed fresh

– Batter can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for a few hours

– Stir well before use if stored

Did You Know?

Chilla variations exist across India—from besan and moong dal versions to modern oats

and semolina adaptations—each offering a unique texture and nutritional profile while

maintaining the same simple cooking technique.

Cultural Notes

Garari reflects the Bhatia approach to simple, wholesome cooking—quick preparations using

everyday ingredients. While similar to chilla, it holds its own identity within the cuisine and

is commonly enjoyed as a light dinner accompaniment rather than just a breakfast item.