Suji Cheela Recipe – Crispy & Healthy Semolina Pancake for Breakfast
Suji Cheela Recipe – Crispy & Healthy Semolina Pancake for Breakfast
If you are looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious breakfast option that can be prepared in just a few minutes, then Suji Cheela is the perfect recipe for you. Made from semolina (also known as rava or sooji), this savory Indian pancake is soft inside, slightly crispy outside, and loaded with vegetables for extra nutrition. It is an excellent choice for breakfast, evening snacks, or even a light dinner.
Suji Cheela is popular in many Indian households because it does not require fermentation like dosa batter and can be prepared instantly. It is light on the stomach yet filling, making it ideal for both kids and adults. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices, which makes this recipe versatile and suitable for every taste preference.
Let’s learn how to make this easy and tasty Suji Cheela at home.
What is Suji Cheela?
Suji Cheela is a savory pancake made with semolina, curd, water, vegetables, and basic spices. Unlike traditional besan cheela, this version has a slightly crispy texture due to semolina. It is often served with green chutney, tomato ketchup, or curd.
This recipe is perfect for those mornings when you want something nutritious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Suji Cheela
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup suji (semolina/rava)
- ½ cup curd (yogurt)
- ½ to ¾ cup water (as needed)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 small tomato (finely chopped)
- 1 small capsicum (finely chopped)
- 1 green chili (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon grated carrot
- 2 tablespoons coriander leaves (chopped)
- Salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon eno or fruit salt (optional, for softness)
- Oil for cooking
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Step-by-Step Suji Cheela Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add suji and curd. Mix them well. Gradually add water and mix to form a smooth batter. The batter should be of pouring consistency, similar to dosa batter but slightly thicker.
Let the batter rest for about 10–15 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb water and become soft.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices
After resting, check the batter consistency. If it becomes thick, add a little water and adjust.
Now add chopped onion, tomato, capsicum, grated carrot, green chili, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix everything well.
If you want extra softness, add eno just before making the cheela and mix gently.
Step 3: Cook the Cheela
Heat a non-stick pan or tawa on medium flame. Lightly grease it with oil.
Pour one ladle full of batter onto the hot pan and spread it gently in a circular motion to form a medium-thick pancake.
Drizzle a little oil around the edges. Cook on medium flame for 2–3 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.
Flip the cheela carefully and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes until crispy and cooked properly.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Serving Suggestions
Suji Cheela tastes best when served hot and fresh. You can serve it with:
- Green chutney
- Coconut chutney
- Tomato ketchup
- Mint yogurt dip
- Pickle
It also tastes great with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Tips for Perfect Suji Cheela
- Always rest the batter for at least 10 minutes.
- Do not make the batter too thin; otherwise, it will break.
- Cook on medium flame to ensure even cooking.
- Add finely chopped vegetables for better texture.
- You can add grated paneer or cheese for a richer taste.
- If making for kids, reduce green chili and add more vegetables.
Variations of Suji Cheela
1. Cheese Suji Cheela
Add grated cheese on top while cooking and fold the cheela.
2. Paneer Stuffed Cheela
Spread paneer stuffing inside and fold like a dosa.
3. Masala Suji Cheela
Add garam masala and chat masala for a spicy flavor.
4. Plain Suji Cheela
Skip vegetables and make a simple version with minimal spices.
Health Benefits of Suji Cheela
- Rich in carbohydrates for energy
- Easy to digest
- Good for growing children
- Can be made with less oil
- Provides fiber when vegetables are added
It is a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks and processed breakfast foods.
Storage Tips
- Batter can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 day.
- Stir well before using.
- Do not add eno before storing.
- Cooked cheela tastes best fresh but can be reheated on a pan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Suji Cheela without curd?
Yes, you can use water instead of curd, but curd adds softness and slight tanginess.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace curd with vegan yogurt or just water.
Why is my cheela breaking?
The batter may be too thin. Adjust consistency and cook on medium flame.
Conclusion
Suji Cheela is a quick, healthy, and delicious Indian breakfast recipe that can be prepared in just a few simple steps. It is perfect for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or evening snacks. The combination of semolina and fresh vegetables makes it both nutritious and satisfying.
Try this easy Suji Cheela recipe at home and enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal with your family. Once you try it, it will surely become a regular part of your kitchen menu!
