What Do We Call Besan In English? Uses, Recipes And Health Benefits

Besan in English is commonly known as gram flour or chickpea flour. It is made by grinding dried chickpeas, particularly Bengal gram (chana dal), into a fine yellow powder.

With its nutty flavour and rich nutritional value, besan in English has gained popularity worldwide as a healthy and gluten-free flour alternative.

Nutritional Value of Besan

One of the main reasons for the rising demand for gram flour is its impressive nutritional profile. It is rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and health-conscious individuals.

Besan provides slow-releasing carbohydrates, helping maintain stable energy levels throughout the day. Its high fibre content aids digestion and supports weight management. Unlike refined flours, chickpea flour is minimally processed, retaining most of its natural nutrients.

Uses of Besan in Cooking

Besan is widely used in Indian cuisine and is now gaining popularity globally. Its versatility makes it suitable for both savoury and sweet dishes.

Popular Besan Recipes

Pakoras: Crispy fritters made with vegetables dipped in spiced besan batter.
Besan Chilla: A healthy pancake made with gram flour, vegetables, and spices.
Besan Ladoo: A traditional sweet prepared with roasted besan, ghee, and sugar.
Dhokla: A soft, steamed snack made from fermented besan batter.
Kadhi Pakora: A comforting curry made with yoghurt and gram flour dumplings.

These besan recipes highlight its adaptability and importance in everyday meals.

Besan for Skincare

Apart from cooking, besan skincare has been a trusted natural remedy in Indian households for generations. Gram flour is known for its ability to cleanse, exfoliate, and brighten the skin.

When mixed with ingredients like turmeric, milk, or yoghurt, besan can be used as a face pack to remove tan, reduce oiliness, and improve skin texture. Its natural properties make it a chemical-free option for maintaining healthy skin.

Health Benefits of Gram Flour

Using besan in English (gram flour) regularly offers several health benefits:

High Protein Content: Supports muscle growth and repair
Gluten-Free: Ideal for people with gluten intolerance
Low Glycaemic Index: Helps control blood sugar levels
Rich in Nutrients: Contains iron, magnesium, and B vitamins
Heart Health: Supports overall cardiovascular wellness

Interesting Facts About Besan

Ancient Ingredient: Used in Indian cooking for centuries
Eco-Friendly Crop: Chickpeas require less water than wheat
Global Popularity: Widely used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines
Versatile Flour: Used in baking, frying, and thickening dishes
Natural Cleanser: Traditionally used in skincare rituals

Besan, or gram flour in English, is more than just a cooking ingredient. From delicious besan recipes to natural skincare and health benefits, it remains a versatile and nutritious choice. As the demand for gluten-free flour continues to grow, besan is becoming a global favourite in modern kitchens.