Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 12 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before cooking.
BREAKFAST
Nepalese Spiced Chickpea Flour Pancakes with Yogurt Dipping Sauce (Chataamari)
These savory Nepalese chickpea flour pancakes, known as Chataamari, are lightly spiced and offer a delightful texture. Served with a cool, tangy yogurt dipping sauce, they make for a unique and satisfying breakfast.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Gradually add the water, whisking constantly, until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. The batter should be similar in consistency to crêpe batter.
02
For the yogurt dipping sauce, combine the plain yogurt and chopped fresh cilantro in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
03
Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet and spread it thinly with the back of a spoon to form a round pancake, about 6 inches in diameter.
04
Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the edges begin to crisp and the surface looks dry. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
05
Remove the cooked pancake from the skillet and repeat with the remaining batter, adding 1 teaspoon of oil for each new pancake.
06
Serve the warm Nepalese Spiced Chickpea Flour Pancakes immediately with the prepared yogurt dipping sauce.
About This Recipe
These savory Nepalese chickpea flour pancakes, known as Chataamari, are lightly spiced and offer a delightful texture. Served with a cool, tangy yogurt dipping sauce, they make for a unique and satisfying breakfast.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, finely chop 1/4 of a small onion and 1 green chili and add them to the batter. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before pouring the batter to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy texture. Adjust chili powder to your spice preference.
Easy Substitutions
You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a thicker dipping sauce. For a gluten-free option, chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels. If you don't have cumin powder, a pinch of garam masala can be used for a similar warm spice note.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. The yogurt dipping sauce should be stored separately in the refrigerator and consumed within 1 day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pancakes with a side of pickled vegetables, a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, or a sprinkle of finely chopped red onion and green chilies directly on top of the pancakes before serving. They also pair well with a hot cup of Nepali milk tea.
Common Mistakes
Using a batter that is too thick will result in dense, doughy pancakes; thin it with a little more water if needed. Not heating the skillet sufficiently will cause the pancakes to stick and not crisp properly. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent even cooking, so cook one pancake at a time. Flipping too early can cause the pancake to tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have chickpea flour?
While chickpea flour is traditional, you could experiment with a mix of rice flour and all-purpose flour, though the flavor and texture will differ.
Can I make these sweet?
This recipe is for a savory pancake. For a sweet version, omit the savory spices and add a touch of sugar or honey to the batter, serving with fruit or sweet yogurt.
MORE TO KNOW
Chataamari, often called 'Nepali Pizza,' is a traditional Newari dish. While this recipe presents a simpler breakfast version, more elaborate Chataamari can include toppings like minced meat, eggs, or vegetables cooked directly on the pancake. The key to a good Chataamari is a thin, evenly spread batter and a hot cooking surface to achieve that perfect crispy edge.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK
Reviews
☆
No reviews yet
Be the first person to review this recipe.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Made this recipe?
Tell us how it turned out.