Chickpea flour substitutes
Chickpea flour substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Besan flour
Same amount as the chickpea flour
Indian chickpea flour with identical properties and flavor.
The best substitutes for chickpea flour are besan flour, fava bean flour, soy flour, or a blend of rice flour with protein powder for similar texture and nutrition.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- pancakes
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of chickpea flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Besan flourpancakes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Fava bean flourpancakes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Soy flourpancakes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Rice flour + protein powderpancakes | 3:1 rice flour to protein powderTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Almond flourpancakes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Quinoa flourpancakes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Besan flour
identical taste and texture
Indian chickpea flour with identical properties and flavor.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, batter, Indian cooking
Same ingredient, different name - direct substitute.
Fava bean flour
similar taste and texture
Similar legume flour with comparable protein content and texture.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, batter, baking
Slightly different flavor but similar binding properties.
Soy flour
different taste, similar texture
High-protein flour with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, baking, batter
Stronger flavor, may need adjustment in seasoning.
Rice flour + protein powder
different taste, similar texture
Blend of rice flour with pea or soy protein for similar nutrition.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, baking
Adjust liquid content as protein powder absorbs more moisture.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Nut flour with similar protein content and binding properties.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, baking
Higher fat content, may need less oil in recipes.
Quinoa flour
different taste, similar texture
Gluten-free flour with complete protein and similar texture.
- Best for
- pancakes, fritters, baking, batter
Slightly bitter flavor, may need sweetener adjustment.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between chickpea flour and besan flour?
Chickpea flour and besan flour are the same thing - both are made from ground chickpeas. Besan is the Indian name for chickpea flour.
Can I use chickpea flour for baking?
Yes, chickpea flour can be used for baking, but it works best in recipes that don't require gluten for structure, like pancakes, fritters, and some flatbreads.
Is chickpea flour good for making pasta?
Chickpea flour can be used to make pasta, but it will be more fragile than wheat pasta. It's commonly used in Indian cuisine for dishes like besan ki roti.
How do I store chickpea flour?
Store chickpea flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last 6-12 months. You can also store it in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life.
Tips for substituting chickpea flour
10 tips- Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free and high in protein
- It has a strong binding ability, making it great for fritters and pancakes
- The flour has a nutty, slightly earthy flavor that works well in savory dishes
- It's commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines
- Chickpea flour can be used to make socca, farinata, and other flatbreads
- It's excellent for coating vegetables before frying
- The flour thickens liquids well, making it good for sauces and gravies
- It can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Chickpea flour is naturally vegan and high in fiber
- It's a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities