Besan

Besan

Besan, also known as gram flour, is a pulse flour made from ground chickpeas, a legume known for its high protein content. It is a staple ingredient in the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent, used in a variety of dishes ranging from savory snacks to sweet desserts.

Etymology

The term "besan" is derived from the Hindi word "बेसन". In other languages, it is known as "gram flour" in English, "harina de garbanzo" in Spanish, and "farine de pois chiche" in French.

Nutritional Profile

Besan is rich in protein, dietary fiber, and several essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in folate, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Due to its high protein content, it is often used as a substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Information per 100g of Besan

Nutrient	Amount
Energy	387 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbohydrates	58 g
Fat	6 g
Fiber	11 g

Culinary Uses

Besan is a versatile ingredient used in various culinary applications:

• Pakora: A popular Indian snack made by coating vegetables or meat in a spiced besan batter and deep-frying them.
• Chilla: A savory pancake made from a batter of besan, water, and spices, often served as a breakfast dish.
• Ladoo: A sweet confection made by roasting besan with ghee and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and nuts.
• Kadhi: A yogurt-based curry thickened with besan, often served with rice.

Health Benefits

Besan offers several health benefits due to its nutritional composition:

• High Protein Content: Supports muscle growth and repair.
• Low Glycemic Index: Helps in managing blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics.
• Rich in Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help in weight management.

Production

Besan is produced by milling dried chickpeas into a fine powder. The process involves cleaning, drying, and grinding the chickpeas. The flour can be made from either raw or roasted chickpeas, with the latter offering a nuttier flavor.

Cultural Significance

In India, besan is not only a culinary staple but also holds cultural significance. It is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies, often as a paste for skin treatments due to its exfoliating properties.

See Also

• Chickpea
• Indian Cuisine
• Gluten-free Diet

References

• "Nutritional Composition of Chickpea Flour." Journal of Food Science and Technology.
• "Traditional Uses of Besan in Indian Cuisine." Culinary Heritage of India.