Besan flour substitutes
Besan flour substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chickpea flour
Same amount as the besan flour
Same flour with different name.
The best substitutes for besan flour are chickpea flour, almond flour, or rice flour, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of besan flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chickpea flourbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Rice flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Chickpea flour
identical taste and texture
Same flour with different name.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, gluten-free recipes, thickening
Different name, same ingredient - identical.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different source.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, gluten-free recipes, thickening
Different source, similar texture - more protein.
Rice flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different source.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, gluten-free recipes, thickening
Different source, similar texture - more neutral.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use chickpea flour instead of besan flour?
Yes, chickpea flour is the same as besan flour, just with a different name.
What's the difference between besan flour and almond flour?
Besan flour is made from chickpeas and has a nutty, earthy flavor, while almond flour is made from almonds and has a sweeter flavor.
Can I use besan flour in non-Indian dishes?
Yes, besan flour can be used in various dishes, but it will add a distinctive nutty, earthy flavor.
Tips for substituting besan flour
4 tips- Besan flour is high in protein and fiber, making it nutritious
- It's commonly used in Indian cooking for pakoras and flatbreads
- Besan flour has a nutty, earthy flavor
- It pairs well with spices and can be used as a thickener