Dhokla Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Soft and Spongy Dhokla

Embark on a culinary adventure that transcends boundaries and introduces you to the world of dhokla—a cherished Indian delicacy that boasts a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and cultural history. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the secrets behind crafting the perfect dhokla, ensuring it emerges from your kitchen as a soft, spongy masterpiece that delights the senses.

Dhokla Recipe, with its roots deeply embedded in Gujarat, reflects the richness of Indian cuisine. From its humble beginnings using ground chana dal to the contemporary use of gram flour, this recipe has evolved over time, yet its essence remains deeply ingrained in the vibrant tapestry of Indian culinary heritage.

Join us as we unravel the step-by-step process of creating the quintessential dhokla batter—infused with the warmth of spices, the tanginess of curd, and the lightness of besan. Discover the magic that happens when the batter meets steam, resulting in a cloud-like confection that captivates palates.

Ingredients for Dhokla Recipe

For Dhokla Recipe Batter:

2 cups Besan (gram flour)
¾ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Turmeric
1 cup Water
½ cup Curd
2 tbsp Sugar (powdered)
1 tsp Green Chilli Paste
1 tsp Ginger Paste
2 tbsp Oil
2 tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tsp Baking Soda or ENO
A small sheet of Butter Paper

For Tempering:

3 tbsp Oil
3 tsp Mustard Seeds (small rai)
6 nos Green Chillies
Handful (optional) Curry Leaves
2 cups Water
3 tbsp Sugar
To taste Salt
¼ cup Lemon Juice

Instructions for Dhokla Recipe

Prepare Dhokla Batter
- Sieve besan to remove any lumps.
- Add salt and turmeric to the besan in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix water, curd, powdered sugar, green chilli paste, ginger paste, and oil.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter consistency.
- Whisk the batter in one direction for 5-7 minutes to incorporate air.
- Add lemon juice and mix well.
- Just before steaming, add baking soda or ENO, and mix until the batter becomes bubbly.
Steam the Dhokla:
- Pour the batter into a greased mold and steam for at least 30 minutes.
- Check for recipe by inserting a toothpick, it should come out clean.
- Let the dhokla rest for 10-15 minutes after steaming.
Prepare Tempering for Dhokla Recipe
- Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, green chillies, and optional curry leaves.
- Add water, sugar, salt, and lemon juice to the pan, bringing it to a quick boil.
- Set aside the tempering mixture.
Assemble and Serve
- Cut the rested dhokla into pieces or use cookie cutters for shapes.
- Pour the warm tempering mixture over the dhokla pieces.
- Allow the dhokla to soak up the moisture for 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate before serving for enhanced flavor.