Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake

 Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake

    Dhokla, a traditional Gujarati snack, is a steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour batter. 

      It's a popular dish enjoyed as a breakfast item or as a light meal or snack. Dhokla is known for its spongy texture and tangy-sweet flavor. 

Here's a detailed recipe to prepare this delectable dish:

Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake

Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake

Ingredients:

For the batter

  - 1 cup gram flour (besan)

  - 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)

  - 1/2 cup yogurt

  - 1 tablespoon oil

  - 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste

  - Salt to taste

  - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

  - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  - 1 teaspoon sugar

  - 1 cup water

  - 1 teaspoon fruit salt (eno)

For tempering:

  - 2 tablespoons oil

  - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

  - 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

  - A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

  - Curry leaves

  - 2-3 green chilies (slit lengthwise)

Method:

1. Prepare the batter

   - In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, semolina, yogurt, oil, ginger-green chili paste, salt, turmeric powder, lemon juice, and sugar.

   - Gradually add water to make a smooth, lump-free batter. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

2. Steam the Dhokla:

   - Grease a Dhokla plate or any shallow dish that fits into your steamer.

   - Add fruit salt (eno) to the batter and mix gently. The batter will froth up.

   - Immediately pour the batter into the greased plate/dish.

   - Steam the batter for 15-20 minutes on medium heat or until a toothpick inserted in the dhokla comes out clean.

3. Prepare the tempering:

   - Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

   - Add sesame seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.

   - Pour this tempering evenly over the steamed dhokla.

4. Serve:

   - Let the dhokla cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares or diamonds.

   - Garnish with chopped coriander leaves if desired.

   - Serve with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake

         Gujarati Dhokla is a versatile and flavorful snack that's not only delicious but also healthy due to its steamed preparation. Its unique taste, combined with the simplicity of its ingredients, makes it a beloved dish across various regions. 

         Enjoy this soft, spongy treat as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat.

Gujrathi Dhokla - a steamed cake