Dhokla is a savory Gujarati dish made from fermented gram flour batter. It is soft, spongy, and has a slightly sweet and sour taste. Dhokla is a popular snack or breakfast food in Gujarat, but it can also be enjoyed as a light meal or side dish.
Here is a simple recipe for making dhokla at home:
Ingredients:
* 1 cup gram flour (besan)
* 1 tablespoon semolina (sooji)
* 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 teaspoon Eno fruit salt
* Oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the gram flour, semolina, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the lemon juice or vinegar and water, and whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
3. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes.
4. Just before pouring the batter into the pan, add the Eno fruit salt and mix gently.
5. Grease a 9×5 inch baking pan with oil.
6. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
7. Place the pan in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the dhokla is cooked through.
8. Let the dhokla cool slightly before slicing and serving.
To make the tadka (topping), heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add green chilies and curry leaves, and cook for a few seconds. Add water, sugar, and salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Pour the tadka over the dhokla and serve hot.
Here are some tips for making dhokla:
* Use good quality gram flour.
* Do not overmix the batter.
* Let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes before steaming.
* Do not overcrowd the steamer.
* Steam the dhokla until it is cooked through.
* Serve the dhokla hot with the tadka.
Dhokla is a delicious and healthy snack or breakfast food. It is easy to make at home, and it is a great way to use up leftover gram flour. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give dhokla a try!
**Here are some additional variations of dhokla:**
* Ragi dhokla: This is made with ragi flour instead of gram flour. It is a good source of fiber and is gluten-free.
* Methi dhokla: This is made with methi (fenugreek) leaves. It has a slightly bitter taste, but it is also very nutritious.
* Urad dal dhokla: This is made with urad dal (split black gram) instead of gram flour. It is a good source of protein.
* Dhokla with vegetables: This is made by adding chopped vegetables to the batter before steaming. Some popular vegetables to add include carrots, potatoes, peas, and cauliflower.
No matter which variation you choose, dhokla is sure to be a delicious and satisfying dish. So get cooking and enjoy!
