Dhokla

When it comes to light, healthy, and flavourful snacks, few dishes rival the irresistible charm of Dhokla. This iconic Gujarati delicacy has earned its place in kitchens worldwide for its fluffy texture, tangy flavor, and health benefits. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast item, a teatime snack, or even as part of a larger meal, Dhokla brings a touch of warmth and authenticity to the table.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Traditionally made with gram flour (besan), curd, and a unique blend of spices, Dhokla is steamed to perfection, making it a guilt-free indulgence. You can experiment with variations like Rava Dhokla, Khaman Dhokla, or even multigrain versions to suit your preferences.

Perfect for every occasion, this savory cake is a testament to how wholesome ingredients can transform into a culinary masterpiece. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to create Dhokla that’s as fluffy, flavorful, and vibrant as the ones served in authentic Gujarati households.

Preparation Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

To make the Dhokla Batter:

Gram Flour (Besan): 1 cup (~120g)
- Calories: ~432 calories
Yogurt (Curd): 1/2 cup (~120ml)
- Calories: ~72 calories
Water: 1/2 cup (~120ml)
- Calories: 0 calories
Sugar: 1 teaspoon (~5g)
- Calories: ~20 calories
Ginger-Green Chili Paste: 1 teaspoon (~5g)
- Calories: ~5 calories
Salt: To taste (~2g)
- Calories: 0 calories
Eno Fruit Salt: 1 teaspoon (~4g)
- Calories: ~5 calories

For the Tempering:

Oil: 2 tablespoons (~28g)
- Calories: ~248 calories
Mustard Seeds: 1 teaspoon (~5g)
- Calories: ~25 calories
Curry Leaves: 10 leaves (~2g)
- Calories: ~1 calorie
Green Chilies: 2, sliced (~10g)
- Calories: ~15 calories
Sesame Seeds: 1 teaspoon (~5g)
- Calories: ~28 calories
Water: 1/4 cup (~60ml)
- Calories: 0 calories
Sugar: 1 teaspoon (~5g)
- Calories: ~20 calories
Salt: A pinch (~1g)
- Calories: 0 calories

For Garnish:

Fresh Coriander Leaves: 2 tablespoons, chopped (~5g)
- Calories: ~1 calorie
Grated Coconut: 1 tablespoon (~6g)
- Calories: ~37 calories

Instructions

1: Prepare the Batter

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift 1 cup of gram flour to remove lumps. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar and salt to taste.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of yogurt and 1/2 cup of water to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
Add Flavors: Stir in 1 teaspoon of ginger-green chili paste. Mix well to ensure an even distribution.
Activate the Batter: Just before steaming, add 1 teaspoon of Eno fruit salt. Gently mix until bubbles form, indicating aeration.

2: Steam the Dhokla

Prepare the Steamer: Preheat a steamer with enough water at the bottom. Grease a flat plate or thali with oil to prevent sticking.
Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter into the greased plate, spreading it evenly.
Steam: Place the plate in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam on medium heat for 15–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice: Allow the Dhokla to cool slightly before cutting it into square or diamond-shaped pieces.

3: Prepare the Tempering

Heat Oil: In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil.
Add Mustard Seeds: Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Incorporate Aromatics: Add 10 curry leaves, 2 sliced green chilies, and 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
Add Sweet and Salty Notes: Stir in 1/4 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a minute.

4: Assemble and Serve

Pour the Tempering: Evenly drizzle the prepared tempering over the steamed Dhokla pieces.
Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut on top for added flavor and texture.
Serve: Enjoy your fluffy, tangy Dhokla warm or at room temperature with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Calorie Breakdown

Gram Flour: ~432 calories
Yogurt: ~72 calories
Sugar (Batter and Tempering): ~40 calories
Oil: ~248 calories
Mustard Seeds: ~25 calories
Sesame Seeds: ~28 calories
Green Chilies: ~15 calories
Fresh Coriander: ~1 calorie
Grated Coconut: ~37 calories

Total Calories: ~898 calories (serves 4, ~225 calories per serving)

Why This Recipe Works

Balanced Flavors

The tanginess of yogurt, the warmth of ginger and green chilies, and the sweetness of sugar create a harmonious balance of flavors.

Light and Healthy

Steaming the Dhokla instead of frying keeps it light, making it a guilt-free snack or meal addition.

Customizable and Versatile

This recipe serves as a base for experimentation—add turmeric for color, top with pomegranate seeds for freshness, or use semolina for a different texture.

Crowd-Pleaser

Whether for breakfast, a party snack, or an evening treat, Dhokla is loved by people of all ages for its softness and delightful taste.