11 Quick 30-Minute Indian Dinner Recipes for Workdays

7. Besan Cheela — Savory Gram-Flour Pancakes for Dinner

Why it works: Besan cheela mixes quickly and cooks like a thin pancake in minutes, making it perfect for a filling, protein-forward dinner. Prep: 5–7 minutes to whisk batter and grate vegetables. Cook: 12–15 minutes on a hot griddle. Make a runny batter with besan, water, chopped onion, grated carrot, green chili, and coriander; season with salt and a pinch of turmeric. Pour thin rounds onto a hot skillet and cook until golden on both sides. Serve with mint-coriander chutney or plain yogurt. Add crumbled paneer or oats to boost protein or fold the cheela into a roll with chutney for a portable tiffin. Tip: rest batter for a few minutes if you have time; otherwise, cook right away for a perfectly quick weekday meal. Cultural note: cheelas are common breakfast items but work as a light, satisfying dinner too.