4 Best Gram Flour Substitutes

There are different types of flours that are used for different reasons. Also, they are made out of ingredients which makes them unique and used for many different reasons to bake.

A unique type of flour that’s glute-free is gram flour. Made of grounded chickpeas this flour is very earthly flavored. You can actually use raw or cooked chickpeas to make gram flour at home.

It provides very nutritious value to our health thanks to the high quantity of carbohydrates, high protein levels, and as I mentioned there is no gluten. Its nutty flavor makes it more unique and it is used in many Indian dishes.

However, what if you don’t have gram flour on hand? Can I use other types of flour instead of gram flour? Even though it may be hard to substitute and get the same results, we have placed a list of the best flours that you can use and still have a nice dish.

Our list includes Whole wheat flour, Quinoa flour, Millet flour, and Cassava flour. Read on to find out more and also read how to also make gram flour at home as well.

Substitutes for Gram Flour

Besides the recipe for homemade gram flour, I have made a list of the best substitutes that you can use instead, so read below and take your pick. Even though they might not taste as good they will do the job right.

1. Whole-wheat flour

This type of flour is made out of wheat but there are 2 different types. The white one is made of winter or white spring wheat and is nutritious. It also has a pale color and mild flavor.

The regular one is made also made of winter wheat or hard red spring wheat. It has a nutty and nutritious flavor. Substitute a gram of whole wheat flour for gram flour.

The regular one has a nuttier flavor and also uses a gram per gram when substituting. They use gluten and are not suitable for people who avoid it. It is heavy and you do not have to use more than 25%. You can substitute for making bread, muffins, biscotti, or scones.

2. Quinoa flour

Another popular flour that is commonly used is quinoa flour. It is a gluten-free flour that makes it similar to gram flour. It is a type of flour that you can also make at home. Grind the quinoa to get the preferred texture and get flour and you are good to go.

You can substitute a 1:1 ratio of quinoa for gram flour. Use it for crusts, pancakes, pizza, or as a thickener for some sauces and soups.

The downside of this flour is that it may not be that easy to find in your local market. Also, keep in mind that quinoa has a bitter taste so use it wisely when substituting.

3. Millet flour

Made from a coarse grain that has many vitamins and minerals, this type of flour is also used as a replacement for gram flour.

Millet flour is a gluten-free flour that is used in many dishes like salads, muffins. It’s a good way to replace potatoes and rice. Dietary fiber decreases cholesterol levels, which makes millet flour very healthy and useful.

The unique taste of millet flour makes it perfect for desserts and other dishes that ask for gram flour. But it’s not suitable for savory dishes because of its sweet taste. Use it for pancakes, cakes, flatbread, or waffles for breakfast. Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting.

4. Cassava flour

A root vegetable that comes from South Africa produces this type of flour. It is similar to carrots, beets, and garnish and provides many minerals and vitamins.

It is vegan and free of gluten, nuts, and grain. And makes a good substitute for gram flour. It has a neutral taste which you can use in many savory and sweet dishes.

Also, it can serve as a thickener because of its texture. The only downside is the carbs that it has so it is good for daily consumption. You can prepare cakes, tacos, burgers, tortillas, and other recipes with cassava flour.

Recipe for Homemade Gram Flour

No worries if there is no gram flour in your market, you can always make one at home. All you’ll need is a blender or food processor and a bag of dried chickpeas.

First and foremost, rinse them under cold water and put them on a paper towel. Leave them dry overnight. The next day, put the chickpeas into the blender and grind them.

Sift them enough so the finer grains can be separated from the coarser ones. Repeat the process with the coarser ones. Process until the texture is flavor-like and you’re done.

Related Questions

What is gram flour used for?

Usually, gram flour is made to coat vegetables for pakoras or to make flatbreads. It is good for savory dishes and has no gluten.

Can gram flour be used instead of plain flour?

Yes, you can but it is advisable not to use more than 75% replacement.

Can I bake with gram flour?

This is a naturally dense flour and has an innate binding tendency. If you use it for baking it will make them sturdy and tender. If you like you can use it to make bread, muffins, cakes, and many other baking goods that will hold up very well.