Dhokla: A steamy Gujarati snack that will tingle your taste buds

Nothing can soothe your Gujju heart more than a plate of steaming hot, spongy, and tangy Dhokla. The aroma of the fermented chickpea batter, ginger, chili, and cumin spices fill your senses, making your mouth water. The fluffy and light texture of the Dhokla melts in your mouth, and the tangy and sour flavors tingle your taste buds. The subtle sweetness of the dish balances perfectly with the savory flavors, making you want to savor every bite.

With each bite, you feel the warmth and comfort of this quintessential Gujarati snack, taking you on a journey to the vibrant streets of Gujarat. The combination of the flavorful spices and the light and airy texture makes Dhokla a dish that you’ll crave for again and again.

Apart from being packed with flavors, dhokla is also packed with essential nutrients like proteins and several important nutrients, including iron, calcium, and B vitamins.

It is also beneficial for people on a weight loss journey as it is low in calories and even is essential for healthy gut  health as it is a fermented food. 

It is also a great option for people with celiac disease as it is gluten-free. 

This popular snack from the Indian state of Gujarat, has a savory and tangy taste from the fermented chickpea batter that is steamed to perfection, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that is easy to digest. Dhokla is loved by many for its unique taste and health benefits.

Here’s a simple recipe for making Dhokla at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1 cup yogurt (dahi)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp fruit salt (eno)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1-2 dried red chilies
• A few curry leaves
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, semolina, yogurt, water, ginger paste, green chili, salt, turmeric powder, and sugar to make a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps in the batter.
2. Heat water in a steamer or a large pot. Grease a Dhokla plate or a cake tin with oil.
3. Add fruit salt to the batter and mix well. Pour the batter into the greased plate or tin and place it in the steamer.
4. Steam the Dhokla for 15-20 minutes on medium heat or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Once the Dhokla is done, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Let it splutter for a few seconds.
7. Cut the Dhokla into bite-sized pieces and pour the tempering over it.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Dhokla as a snack or breakfast dish!