Besan roti, also known as chickpea flour roti, is a flatbread from Indian cuisine. It is made primarily from besan flour (or gram flour) and is a staple in many households, especially in northern India.

besan roti placed on brown paper on a plate.

What Is Besan Roti?

Besan roti, also referred to as besan masala roti or missi roti, is a type of Indian bread using a mix of whole wheat flour and chickpea flour.

In contrast to typical rotis, the inclusion of chickpea flour gives besan roti its characteristic golden brown colour and slightly nutty flavour. It also has added spices so is known as besan masala roti, similarly to Masala Laccha Paratha, Masala Puri or Masala Bhakhri.

Indian chickpea flour bread is commonly paired with flavourful side dishes like yogurt, pickles, or chutneys. It can also be served alongside dals, curries, or vegetables, making it a perfect side dish of your choice.

Ingredients notes

Be sure to check out the full recipe in the recipe card below.

The main ingredients for besan roti are simple and easily available.

Besan (gram flour) I often make zucchini pancakes and savoury carrot pancakes using this flour.
Whole wheat flour - also known as aata.
Salt
Carom seeds (ajwain, for added flavor and digestion)
Coriander leaves or fenugreek leaves, finely chopped
Green chilies, minced (optional for spice lovers)
Red chili powder
Turmeric powder
Little oil for pliability
Cup of water (warm, adjust to form a pliable dough)

Other Besan Recipes

A stack of chickpea flour rotis are on a round brass plate.

Serving Suggestions

Besan roti can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments. Pair it with rajasthani cuisine classics, like gatte ki sabzi or kadhi, or serve with a refreshing yogurt dip. For a quick snack, roll it up with tomato ketchup or a tangy pickle such as keri no chundo.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Besan Roti

Dough Consistency: Use just the amount of water needed to form a pliable, non-sticky dough.
Enhance Flavour: Add chopped green chillies, coriander leaves, or dried spices for extra taste.
Avoid Overcooking: Ensure the roti is cooked until golden but not burnt; the right balance ensures soft texture and flavour.
Gluten Allergy Alternative: Replace whole wheat flour entirely with gram flour for a gluten-free version.

Gluten-free Besan Roti

You can make this recipe entirely gluten-free without using the whole wheat flour. However, you will need to make a small change to the recipe.

Use very hot but not boiling water to knead the dough. This ensures the roti will remain soft once kneaded and cooked. That's how I make my Bajra roti (Bajra Na Rotla).

You can add gluten-free plain flour (purpose flour) or oat flour instead of whole wheat flour.

You can also add boiled mashed potato to the flour whilst kneading the dough.

besan flatbread served with chilli pickle on the side.

As always if you make this recipe, be sure to leave me a comment, rate this recipe and tag me on Instagram @jcookingodyssey or #jcookingodyssey. I love seeing all your photos of my recipe recreations!

Don’t forget to follow me on social media using the buttons below – I can't wait to see you all there!

📖 Recipe