Besan can definitely be gas-inducing for some folks, and there are plenty of reasons why that might happen. You’re onto something with the idea that besan might be heavy to digest, especially during the night. In Ayurveda, besan (gram flour) is considered to have a drying and heavy quality, which can aggravate Vata dosha. This could lead to bloating and gas in individuals who already have a Vata imbalance or weaker digestive fire (Agni).
Interestingly, preparation and timing play a huge role here. Eating heavier foods like besan at night might weigh your digestion down because the body’s natural Agni is often weaker late in the day. Maybe try having your besan dishes earlier, like during lunch when digestion is stronger.
As for your spices, turmeric and cumin can actually aid digestion—they’re known for reducing gas and bloating. But chili powder might be a culprit here; it can aggravate Vata and Pitta, leading to digestive discomfort. Consider using spices like asafoetida (hing) and ginger, both known for their carminative properties to further help with bloating.
Now, soaking besan before cooking isn’t typical since it’s a flour, but to make it more digestible, you could ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and use a little ghee when preparing to balance its dry nature.
Regarding the heating or cooling nature of foods, besan is generally heating. So, if your Vata is aggravated, it’s best to consume it with cooling foods like yogurt or coconut. Try reducing the quantity you consume as well—smaller portions can be easier for the stomach to handle and less likely to cause gas.
Lastly, keep observing how you feel after consuming various besan-based dishes. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it might be worth reducing its intake temporarily or combining it with gut-soothing Ayurvedic teas like ginger or fennel. Also, soaking legumes before making besan might not make sense, but ensuring they are fresh and properly stored certainly helps.
Stick with warmer and freshly prepared dishes, stay hydrated, and see how your body adapts. If the bloating doesn’t ease up, it might be worth talking to a practitioner for a more personalized approach based on your dosha type.
