Substitute for Besan: 4 Chickpea Flour Alternatives
The best substitute for besan (chickpea flour) is Chickpea Flour (Western) at a 1 cup chickpea flour per 1 cup besan ratio. It works best for pakoras, kadhi, besan ladoo. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Chickpea Flour (Western)
1 cup chickpea flour per 1 cup besan
Same product, different name. Garbanzo bean flour is identical. Check it is made from desi chickpeas for closer match.
What are the other substitutes for besan (chickpea flour)?
Lentil Flour (Masoor Dal Flour)
1 cup lentil flour per 1 cup besan
Similar protein content and binding ability. Slightly different flavor but works in savory dishes.
Rice Flour + Cornstarch Mix
3/4 cup rice flour + 1/4 cup cornstarch
For crispy batters only. Lacks the binding power and flavor of besan. Add a pinch of turmeric for color.
All-Purpose Flour
1 cup all-purpose flour per 1 cup besan
Works for binding and batters but lacks the distinctive nutty flavor and is not gluten-free.
What should you know before substituting besan (chickpea flour)?
Besan absorbs water differently than wheat flour. When making batter, add water gradually. For perfect pakora batter, the consistency should coat the back of a spoon. Adding a pinch of baking soda makes pakoras extra crispy.
How do you substitute besan (chickpea flour) in a recipe?
A protein-rich flour ground from dried chickpeas (chana dal), essential in Indian cooking for pakoras, besan ladoo, kadhi, dhokla, and as a binding agent. Has a distinctive nutty flavor.
The best substitute for besan (chickpea flour) depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Chickpea Flour (Western) (1 cup chickpea flour per 1 cup besan), which works well for pakoras, kadhi, besan ladoo.
If you need a different option, Lentil Flour (Masoor Dal Flour) (1 cup lentil flour per 1 cup besan) is another reliable choice. Similar protein content and binding ability. Slightly different flavor but works in savory dishes.
When substituting besan (chickpea flour), consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and Celiac Disease Foundation. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is besan the same as chickpea flour?
Yes. Besan is the Hindi name for chickpea flour (also called gram flour or garbanzo flour). They are the same product and fully interchangeable.
Can I make besan at home?
Yes. Grind dried chana dal (split chickpeas) in a blender or spice grinder until very fine. Sift to remove any large pieces. Homemade besan is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought.