What is Besan, and What's its English Name?
Besan, known in English as gram flour, is a fine-textured flour made from ground chickpeas. Specifically, it is milled from chana dal, which are hulled and split brown chickpeas, not the whole white chickpeas (Kabuli chana) commonly used for garbanzo bean flour. This distinction, while subtle, is crucial for certain recipes, as the flours behave differently when cooked. Gram flour is a cornerstone of Indian, Bangladeshi, Burmese, and Pakistani cuisine, prized for its nutty flavor and binding properties. Its versatility extends beyond savory dishes, as it is also used in sweets and even traditional skincare remedies.
The Difference Between Gram Flour (Besan) and Chickpea Flour
Though the names are often used interchangeably, there is a technical difference between besan and general chickpea flour. Besan, or gram flour, is made from the desi variety of chickpea, the smaller, darker, brown chickpea that has been split. The resulting flour is finer, denser, and smoother than the chickpea flour made from the larger, lighter-colored garbanzo beans (Kabuli chana). This difference in milling and source chickpea leads to varying absorption rates; besan requires less liquid to form a batter of the same consistency as garbanzo bean flour.
Comparison Table: Besan vs. Garbanzo Bean Flour
| Feature | Besan (Gram Flour) | Garbanzo Bean Flour |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Split brown chickpeas (chana dal) | Whole white chickpeas (Kabuli chana) |
| Texture | Finer and denser | Coarser and fluffier |
| Flavor | Nutty, earthy flavor | Mild, nutty flavor; can be more bitter when raw |
| Binding | Excellent binding agent due to paste-like consistency | Good binding, but requires more liquid |
| Typical Uses | Indian fritters (pakoras), flatbreads (chillas), steamed cakes (dhokla) | American gluten-free baking, socca (pancakes), thickening sauces |
Culinary Applications of Besan
Besan is a highly adaptable ingredient that is essential to a vast array of global dishes. Its superior binding capabilities make it perfect for holding ingredients together in fritters and dumplings without using eggs or gluten. When roasted, it develops a deeper, nutty flavor, which is a key component in Indian sweets like ladoo.
Savory dishes:
- Pakoras: Vegetables like onions, potatoes, or spinach are dipped in a spiced besan batter and deep-fried to create crispy, savory fritters.
- Chilla (Besan Cheela): A thin, savory pancake made from besan batter, often mixed with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, and served as a nutritious breakfast.
- Kadhi: A thick, savory curry with a sour, tangy flavor, typically made with besan and yogurt.
- Dhokla: A steamed, spongy savory cake from Gujarat, known for its light and airy texture.
- Gatte ki Sabzi: Rajasthani dumplings made from besan, simmered in a spicy yogurt-based gravy.
Sweets and desserts:
- Besan Ladoo: A popular Indian sweet where roasted besan is mixed with ghee and sugar to form fragrant, melt-in-the-mouth orbs.
- Mysore Pak: A rich, melt-in-your-mouth sweet made by cooking besan with copious amounts of ghee and sugar.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile
Besan is not only a versatile cooking ingredient but also a nutritional powerhouse. It is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe alternative for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is also high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which offer numerous health benefits.
- Rich in Protein: Besan contains a significantly higher protein content than wheat flour, making it an excellent source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans.
- High in Fiber: The high fiber content aids in healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes feelings of fullness, which can assist in weight management.
- Low Glycemic Index: Besan has a lower glycemic index compared to refined flour, leading to a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for managing diabetes.
- Packed with Nutrients: It is a good source of important vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and folate.
Besan's Role in Skincare
Beyond the kitchen, besan has been used for centuries in South Asia as a natural beauty ingredient. It is a versatile component in homemade face masks and scrubs for various skin concerns.
- Exfoliation: The fine, grainy texture acts as a gentle exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
- Oil Control: For oily skin, besan face packs help absorb excess sebum and balance the skin's pH levels.
- Brightening: Regularly using besan can help lighten tans, reduce blemishes, and brighten the complexion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the English name for besan is gram flour, and it is distinctly made from split brown chickpeas (chana dal). While it is a type of chickpea flour, it is not the same as garbanzo bean flour, which comes from a different variety of chickpea and has a different texture. This nutrient-rich, gluten-free flour is a versatile staple in cooking, from savory fritters to sweet desserts, and has been a cherished natural remedy for skin health for generations. Understanding the unique properties of besan can help home cooks and health-conscious consumers alike appreciate this essential ingredient. For more information on the distinctions, Vegan Richa provides an excellent resource detailing the differences between besan and general chickpea flour(https://www.veganricha.com/difference-between-besan-and-chickpea-flour/).
