Sawan is a time when many devotees observe fasts dedicated to Lord Shiva, often following a satvik diet that excludes grains, onion and garlic. While fasting meals are usually simple, they don’t have to be
repetitive. One dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare is Singhara Atta Cheela, a savoury pancake made with water chestnut flour and a handful of vrat-friendly ingredients.
Singhara atta, also known as water chestnut flour, is one of the most commonly used flours during fasting in India. Naturally gluten-free, it is rich in minerals like calcium and potassium and also provides fibre and plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for keeping you full and energised throughout the day.
This cheela comes together with just a few pantry staples. Singhara atta is mixed with chopped green chillies, fresh coriander, cumin powder, crushed black pepper and rock salt before being whisked with water into a smooth, pourable batter. The result is a mildly spiced batter that cooks into soft yet crisp pancakes.
The secret to getting the perfect cheela is not to spread the batter too thin. Once the pan is hot, pour a ladleful of batter onto a lightly greased non-stick tawa and gently swirl the pan to spread it naturally. This helps prevent the delicate singhara flour batter from sticking or breaking.
Cook the cheela over medium heat with a drizzle of ghee until the underside turns golden. Flip it carefully and cook the other side until crisp and evenly browned. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top while cooking for added texture and flavour.
Serve the cheela hot with vrat-friendly mint chutney, plain curd or homemade peanut chutney for a wholesome breakfast, lunch or evening snack. You can also pair it with a bowl of fruit or a glass of buttermilk if your fasting rules permit.
Quick to prepare, naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, Singhara Atta Cheela is proof that fasting food can be both delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re observing a Sawan Monday fast or simply looking for a healthy seasonal recipe, this simple cheela deserves a place on your vrat menu.
Ingredients
¾ cup singhara atta (water chestnut flour)
1 green chilli, finely chopped
½ tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped
2 tsp cumin powder
½ tsp turmeric powder (optional, depending on your fasting traditions)
2 tsp coarsely crushed black pepper
Rock salt, to taste
Ghee for cooking
Water, as required
Method
In a mixing bowl, combine singhara atta, green chilli, coriander, cumin powder, black pepper and rock salt.
Gradually add water and whisk until you get a smooth, pourable batter without lumps.
Heat a lightly greased non-stick tawa. Pour one ladle of batter and gently swirl the pan instead of spreading it too thin.
Drizzle ghee around the edges and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Flip carefully and cook the other side until crisp and cooked through.
Serve hot with vrat-friendly chutney or fresh curd.
