Introduction to Dhokla

Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack known for its light, fluffy texture and tangy flavor. Made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, this steamed dish is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. Dhokla is often enjoyed as a breakfast item, snack, or even a light meal, and it’s a staple in Gujarati cuisine. Its soft, spongy texture and mild sweetness make it a favorite among people of all ages. Making Dhokla at home is simple, and this recipe will guide you through the process step by step.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dhokla recipe is quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients to create a dish that’s as close to the traditional version as possible. The combination of tangy and sweet flavors, along with the soft and spongy texture, makes it a standout snack. Plus, it’s steamed, making it a healthier alternative to fried snacks. Whether you’re cooking for a family breakfast or a party appetizer, this Dhokla is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Dhokla at home:

For the Dhokla Batter:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fruit salt (eno)
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed)

For the Tempering:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2-3 green chilies (slit)
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Grated coconut (optional)

---

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dhokla Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine gram flour, semolina, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add ginger-green chili paste, lemon juice, and water. Mix well to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
3. Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Steam the Dhokla

1. Prepare the Steamer: Grease a dhokla plate or any flat steaming dish with oil.
2. Add Fruit Salt: Just before steaming, add fruit salt (eno) to the batter and mix gently. You’ll notice the batter becoming frothy.
3. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the greased plate and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
4. Steam: Place the plate in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes on medium heat. Insert a toothpick to check if it’s cooked; it should come out clean.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

1. Heat Oil: Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add Aromatics: Add sesame seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add Water and Sugar: Pour in water and sugar. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4: Assemble the Dhokla

1. Cut the Dhokla: Once steamed, let the dhokla cool slightly. Cut it into squares or diamonds.
2. Add Tempering: Pour the tempering evenly over the dhokla pieces.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and grated coconut (if using).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Dhokla: Serve the dhokla warm or at room temperature.
2. Pair with Chutney: Enjoy with green chutney or tamarind chutney for extra flavor.

---

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

---

Health Benefits of Dhokla

Dhokla is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

1. High in Protein: Gram flour is a great source of plant-based protein.
2. Low in Calories: Steaming makes it a low-calorie snack compared to fried options.
3. Rich in Fiber: Gram flour and semolina provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
4. Probiotics: Fermentation (if using fermented batter) adds probiotics, promoting gut health.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

---

Ending Notes and Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves will enhance the flavor.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Increase or decrease sugar based on your preference.
3. Make It Spicier: Add more green chilies or red chili powder for extra heat.
4. Serve Immediately: Dhokla is best enjoyed fresh, as it may dry out over time.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a steamer.