Dhokla Recipe: A Light and Healthy Gujarati Snack

Dhokla is a popular steamed snack from Gujarat, known for its light and spongy texture. Made primarily from fermented rice and chickpea batter, this savory treat is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. It’s an ideal option for breakfast, snacks, or even a light meal. Here’s how you can prepare this healthy and tasty Dhokla at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1/4 cup semolina (rava or suji)
• 1/2 cup yogurt (curd)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda or fruit salt (Eno)
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup water

For Tempering:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 1-2 green chilies, sliced
• A few curry leaves
• Freshly chopped coriander leaves for garnish
• Grated coconut for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, semolina, yogurt, and water. Whisk the mixture until smooth and lump-free.
• Add ginger-green chili paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to form a thick batter.
• Allow the batter to rest for 15-20 minutes to ferment slightly.

1. Steam the Dhokla:

• Grease a dhokla plate or a deep flat-bottomed pan with oil.
• Just before steaming, add baking soda or fruit salt (Eno) to the batter. Gently mix, and you will notice the batter becoming fluffy.
• Pour the batter into the greased plate and spread it evenly.
• Steam the batter in a steamer or pressure cooker (without the whistle) for about 15-20 minutes on medium heat, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

1. Prepare the Tempering:

• Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
• Add sesame seeds, asafoetida, sliced green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
• Pour this tempering over the steamed dhokla.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Allow the dhokla to cool slightly, then cut it into squares or diamond shapes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut, if using.
• Serve the dhokla with green chutney or sweet tamarind chutney.

Conclusion

Dhokla is a nutritious and delicious snack that can easily fit into a balanced diet. However, if you have specific dietary needs, such as managing PCOS or weight loss, it's important to consult a dietician before adding new recipes to your meal plan. For personalized advice, you can reach out to Dietician Natasha Mohan. Additionally, if you're looking for a specialized diet plan, exploring a PCOS Diet plan for weight loss can help you manage your health effectively.