EasyVegan

Savoury Chickpea Pancakes

Prep 10 minsCook 15 minsServes 4£0.70/servingSavoury

Savoury pancakes made entirely from chickpea flour, water, and spices - no eggs, no dairy, no structural compromise. Chickpea flour (also sold as gram flour or besan) produces a thin, sturdy pancake with a naturally nutty flavour and a firm enough texture to hold generous fillings without tearing. Inspired by socca and the Indian chilla, these are entirely plant-based. Season the batter well - a pinch of ground cumin, turmeric, and black pepper transforms the flavour.

Vegan Savoury Chickpea Pancakes - savoury pancake recipe served on a plate, photographed from above

Ingredients

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  • 200g (7oz)chickpea flour, also sold as gram flour or besan
  • 350ml (12fl oz)cold water
  • 2 tbspolive oil, plus extra for the pan
  • 0.5 tspfine salt
  • 0.5 tspground cumin
  • 0.25 tspground turmeric
  • 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tsplemon juice

Method

  1. 1

    Whisk chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl until completely smooth.

  2. 2

    Leave to rest for 10 minutes - this allows the flour to hydrate fully and improves the texture.

    Resting is not optional here: unrested chickpea batter produces a gummy centre.
  3. 3

    Heat a non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat and add a thin film of olive oil.

    Chickpea batter can stick more than wheat batter - make sure the oil is hot before adding batter.
  4. 4

    Pour in 80ml of batter and swirl to spread into a thin round. Cook for 2--3 minutes until the edges lift and the top looks dry.

  5. 5

    Flip and cook for a further 2 minutes. The second side will cook faster.

  6. 6

    Fill with your chosen topping, fold or roll, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  • →Chickpea batter can stick more than wheat batter - make sure the oil is hot before adding batter.
  • →Resting is not optional here: unrested chickpea batter produces a gummy centre.
  • →The batter keeps in the fridge for up to 24 hours - stir before use as it will separate.
  • →For a thinner result, add an extra 50ml of water.

Topping Ideas

Roasted vegetablesWilted spinach and garlicTomato salsaHummus and cucumber

Learn More

Terms in this recipe

GaletteBuckwheatDosaBlini

Defined in the Pancake Day glossary.

Questions & answers

Where can I buy chickpea flour?⌄
It is stocked in most large supermarkets, usually near the world foods aisle. South Asian and Middle Eastern grocery shops carry it in larger quantities at a lower price.
Are these gluten-free?⌄
Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free. Check that your specific brand is certified gluten-free if you have coeliac disease, as some facilities process wheat on the same equipment.
Can I make sweet versions?⌄
Yes - omit the cumin and turmeric, add 1 tablespoon of caster sugar and half a teaspoon of cinnamon instead. Serve with stewed apple or pears.
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