Dhokla: A Light and Spongy Snack from Gujarat
Dhokla is a popular snack from the state of Gujarat in India. It is made with a fermented batter of gram flour, which gives it a unique texture that is light, spongy, and mildly sweet. Dhokla is typically served with a side of green chutney and is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Here's a simple recipe for making Dhokla at home.
Ingredients to make Dhokla
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (dahi)
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 green chilli, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Eno fruit salt
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- A few curry leaves
- 2-3 green chillies, slit lengthwise
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
How to make Dhokla
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, add gram flour, semolina, yogurt, ginger paste, green chilli, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add water to the mixture to make a smooth batter. The consistency of the batter should be similar to that of idli batter.
Grease a steamer plate or a thali with oil and keep it ready.
Heat water in a steamer or a large pot.
Once the water starts boiling, add Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix well. The batter will become frothy and increase in volume.
Pour the batter into the greased plate or thali and steam it for 15-20 minutes on medium heat.
To check if the Dhokla is cooked, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, then the Dhokla is ready.
Let the Dhokla cool down for a few minutes and then cut it into small pieces.
Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, curry leaves, and slit green chillies. Saute for a few seconds.
Add 1/4 cup water, sugar, and lemon juice to the pan and mix well. Cook for a minute or two until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.
Pour this mixture over the Dhokla and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Serve Dhokla with green chutney.
Dhokla is a healthy and delicious snack that is easy to make at home. This simple recipe will help you create soft and spongy Dhokla that is sure to impress your family and friends. So, give it a try and enjoy this popular snack from Gujarat!
