Dhokla, a beloved snack from the Indian state of Gujarat, is a savory, steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea batter. Known for its fluffy texture and tangy flavor, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, tea-time snack, or even a light meal. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few authentic Dhokla recipes, each offering a unique twist on this classic dish.

Classic Gujarati Dhokla

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• 1/2 cup split urad dal (black gram split pulses)
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • Soak the rice and urad dal together in water for 4-6 hours.
   • Drain and blend the soaked rice and dal with a little water to form a smooth batter.
   • Transfer the batter to a bowl and mix in the chickpea flour, yogurt, ginger-green chili paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Let it ferment for about 8-12 hours, or overnight.
2. Steam the Dhokla:
   • Once fermented, stir in the baking soda and lemon juice.
   • Grease a steaming tray or plate with oil.
   • Pour the batter into the tray and smooth the top.
   • Steam the batter in a steamer or large pot with a lid for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Prepare the Tempering:
   • Heat a little oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
   • Pour the tempering over the steamed Dhokla.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Cut into pieces and serve hot with chutneys and snacks.

Khaman Dhokla

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• For tempering: 1 tablespoon oil, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, 1 green chili (sliced), 8-10 curry leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a large bowl, mix chickpea flour, yogurt, ginger-green chili paste, turmeric powder, salt, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Add a little water if needed to achieve a smooth batter.
   • Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Steam the Dhokla:
   • Grease a steaming tray or plate.
   • Pour the batter into the tray and steam for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
3. Prepare the Tempering:
   • Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, sliced green chili, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   • Pour this tempering over the steamed Khaman Dhokla.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped coriander and grated coconut if desired.
   • Serve warm with mint chutney or tamarind chutney.

Rawa Dhokla

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina (rava)
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a bowl, mix semolina, yogurt, turmeric powder, salt, sugar, and baking soda. Add a little water to make a smooth batter. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
2. Steam the Dhokla:
   • Grease a steaming tray or plate.
   • Pour the batter into the tray and smooth the surface.
   • Steam for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Prepare the Tempering:
   • Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
   • Pour the tempering over the steamed Dhokla.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Cut into pieces and serve with green chutney or sweet chutney.

Conclusion

Dhokla is a versatile and delightful dish that embodies the flavors and textures of Indian cuisine. Whether you prefer the classic Gujarati style, the tangy Khaman, or the quick Rawa version, these recipes provide a wonderful way to explore this cherished snack. Each variant offers its unique taste and texture, making Dhokla a favorite among many. So, gather your ingredients, follow these recipes, and enjoy a taste of India’s culinary heritage