Dhokla

 Dhokla

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups gram flour (besan)

• 3 tbsp semolina (rava/sooji)

• ½ tsp ginger paste

• 2 green chilies, finely chopped

• ¼ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp sugar

• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 cup water

• ½ tsp Eno fruit salt

For Tempering:

• 2 tbsp oil

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 7-8 curry leaves

• 2 green chilies, slit

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a large mixing bowl, sieve gram flour and semolina.

   • Add ginger paste, chopped green chilies, turmeric, sugar, hing, salt, lemon juice, and oil.

   • Gradually add water to make a smooth batter. Let it rest for 20 minutes.

2. Add Leavening Agent:

   • Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix gently. The batter will become frothy.

3. Steam the Dhokla:

   • Pour the batter into a greased steaming tray.

   • Steam for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

4. Prepare the Tempering:

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

   • Add curry leaves and slit green chilies.

   • Add sugar, lemon juice, and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for a minute.

5. Final Touch:

• Pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla.

• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut if desired.

Conclution

Dhokla is a cherished vegetarian dish from Gujarat, India, celebrated for its unique blend of taste, texture, and health benefits. Made from a fermented batter of rice and split chickpeas (chana dal), it is steamed to achieve a soft, spongy texture. The fermentation process not only imparts a tangy flavor but also enhances its nutritional profile, making it rich in proteins, fiber, and essential micronutrients like zinc, folic acid, and iron .

Dhokla's versatility is evident in its various forms, such as Khaman (made with gram flour), Khatta Dhokla (with a sour taste), and Rava Dhokla (using semolina), each offering distinct flavors and textures . Its low glycemic index makes it suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, including those with diabetes .

Traditionally served with accompaniments like green chutney, tamarind chutney, or fried green chilies, dhokla is more than just a snack; it's a representation of Gujarat's rich culinary heritage and a testament to the harmonious blend of taste and health in Indian cuisine.