📝 What is Dhokla?

Dhokla is a traditional Indian snack made primarily from fermented gram flour batter, steamed to perfection, and then tempered with mustard seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves. It’s often enjoyed as breakfast or evening snacks and is usually served with green chutney or sweet tamarind chutney.

How to Make Soft and Spongy Dhokla at Home – Step-by-Step Recipe

If you’re a fan of light, healthy, and flavorful snacks, Dhokla is the perfect addition to your recipe list. Originating from Gujarat, India, this savory steamed cake made from fermented gram flour (besan) is not just delicious, but also protein-rich and low in calories. It’s gluten-free, quick to make, and a favorite among both kids and adults.

⭐ Ingredients You Will Need

For Dhokla Batter:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)

• 1 tbsp semolina (sooji) – optional (adds texture)

• ¾ cup water (adjust consistency)

• 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt to taste

• 1 sachet ENO fruit salt (or ½ tsp baking soda)

For Tempering:

• 1½ tbsp oil

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (til)

• 2 green chilies (slit)

• A few curry leaves

• ¼ cup water

• 1 tsp sugar

• A pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Chopped coriander leaves

• Grated coconut (optional)

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dhokla

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, sieve 1 cup of gram flour to remove lumps.

2. Add 1 tbsp semolina (optional), turmeric, salt, sugar, and ginger-green chili paste.

3. Gradually pour in ¾ cup water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

4. Mix until you get a smooth and slightly thick batter (like pancake batter).

5. Add lemon juice, and let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes.

Tip: Resting allows semolina and besan to soak water, making dhokla softer.

🔹 Step 2: Prepare the Steamer

1. While the batter rests, grease a dhokla plate or any flat-bottomed dish with oil.

2. In a large steamer or a deep pot, pour 2–3 cups water and place a stand or ring inside.

3. Cover with a lid and start boiling the water – preheating is important.

🔹 Step 3: Add ENO and Steam

1. Just before steaming, add ENO (fruit salt) to the batter.

2. Mix briskly in one direction; you’ll see the batter rise and become frothy.

3. Immediately pour the batter into the greased tray, filling only ½ or ¾ of the height.

4. Place the tray in the steamer, cover tightly, and steam for 15–18 minutes on medium heat.

5. Insert a toothpick in the center — if it comes out clean, your dhokla is done.

Note: Don’t open the lid too early; it might collapse the fluffy texture.

🔹 Step 4: Let It Cool & Cut

1. Remove the tray from the steamer and allow it to cool for 5–7 minutes.

2. Once slightly cool, gently loosen the edges and invert or cut directly in square or diamond pieces.

🔹 Step 5: Prepare the Tempering

1. Heat 1½ tbsp oil in a small pan.

2. Add mustard seeds, let them splutter.

3. Add sesame seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves.

4. Pour in ¼ cup water, 1 tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it boil for a minute.

5. Pour this tempering evenly over the dhokla pieces.

The tempering adds flavor and keeps the dhokla moist.

🔹 Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle chopped coriander and grated coconut for a traditional touch.

• Serve warm or at room temperature with green chutney or imli chutney.

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving ~100g)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on portion size and ingredients.

💡 Tips for Making Perfect Dhokla

1. Use ENO only just before steaming – don’t let the batter sit after adding it.

2. Steam immediately after adding ENO for fluffy results.

3. If using baking soda, add ½ tsp and increase lemon juice to 1.5 tbsp.

4. For a richer flavor, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the tempering.

5. You can make this entirely in a microwave (5–6 mins) or in an Instant Pot too.

🤔 FAQs – Common Dhokla Questions

Q1. Why is my dhokla not spongy?

If the batter wasn’t steamed immediately after adding ENO or if the ENO was old, the dhokla might turn out flat.

Q2. Can I store dhokla?

Yes! You can refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or microwave before serving.

Q3. Can I use curd in the batter?

Yes, adding 2 tbsp of yogurt/curd gives a slightly tangy taste and improves texture.

📌 Final Thoughts

Dhokla is more than just a snack – it’s a healthy, high-protein meal that’s light on the stomach yet full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, tea-time snack, or party appetizer, this instant dhokla recipe is the best choice.

Try it once, and it will surely become your go-to favorite. Happy cooking!