Master The Art Of Preparing Dhokla With This 6-Step Recipe

Dhokla is a popular and flavorful savory snack from the Indian state of Gujarat. It's known for its light, fluffy texture and slightly tangy taste. Dhokla is cherished for its delicate balance of flavors, light texture, and its ability to be both comforting and refreshing.

Dhokla is a delicious and fluffy steamed snack from Gujarat, India. It's made from fermented rice and chickpea batter and is typically enjoyed as a breakfast or tea-time treat. Here's a simple recipe for making dhokla at home:

1. Ingredients

For the Batter:

- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)

- 1 tablespoon ginger-green chili paste

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon fruit salt (Eno) or baking soda

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional, if not using fruit salt)

- Salt to taste

For the Tempering:

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

- 1-2 green chilies, slit

- A few curry leaves

- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet tempering)

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Batter:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour, yogurt, water, ginger-green chili paste, sugar, turmeric powder, and salt.

2. Mix well to make a smooth batter. Adjust the water to get a thick yet pourable consistency.

3. Let the batter sit for about 10 minutes. This allows it to ferment slightly and makes the dhokla fluffier.

Step 2- Prepare the Steamer:

1. Heat water in a steamer or large pot. Ensure there's enough water to generate steam but not so much that it touches the batter.

2. Grease a steaming tray or a round cake tin with oil. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 3- Add the Leavening Agent:

1. Just before steaming, add the fruit salt (Eno) or baking soda to the batter. Gently fold it in. You'll notice the batter will start to bubble and rise.

2. Immediately pour the batter into the prepared steaming tray.

Step 4- Steam the Dhokla:

1. Place the tray in the steamer and cover it with a lid. Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. If using a large pot with a lid, you can place the batter-filled tray on a stand or a trivet to keep it above the water.

Step 5- Prepare the Tempering:

1. Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

2. Add sesame seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves. Stir for a few seconds.

3. If you like a sweeter tempering, add sugar at this point and stir until it dissolves.

Step 6- Assemble:

1. Once the dhokla is steamed and cooled slightly, cut it into pieces.

2. Pour the tempering over the dhokla pieces.

3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Step 7- Serve:

- Serve the dhokla warm or at room temperature with chutney or yogurt on the side.

Enjoy your homemade dhokla! It's perfect with a cup of tea or as a snack anytime.