Easy dhokla recipe for busy days!

Looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying snack? This easy dhokla recipe is your answer! A beloved Gujarati dish, dhokla is light, fluffy, and full of flavor β€” perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or even as a side dish. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious and homemade. 🌿

 

🌟 What Is Dhokla?

 

Dhokla is a traditional Indian steamed cake made from fermented batter β€” usually a mix of gram flour (besan), semolina (rava), and spices. It’s soft, airy, slightly tangy, and often garnished with a fragrant tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves.

 

It’s gluten-free, steamed instead of fried, and packed with protein β€” making it a healthy and satisfying snack option.

 

πŸ§‚ Ingredients for Easy Dhokla Recipe

For the Batter:

 

1 cup gram flour (besan)

 

2 tbsp semolina (rava/sooji) – optional, for extra fluffiness

 

1 tbsp sugar

 

Β½ tsp salt (or to taste)

 

1 tsp ginger-green chili paste

 

1 tbsp lemon juice or 2 tsp vinegar

 

1 cup water (adjust as needed for thick batter consistency)

 

1 tsp eno fruit salt (or Β½ tsp baking soda + Β½ tsp lemon juice)

 

For the Tempering (Tadka):

 

1 tbsp oil

 

1 tsp mustard seeds

 

1–2 green chilies, slit

 

8–10 curry leaves

 

1 cup water

 

2 tsp sugar

 

1 tbsp lemon juice

 

πŸ•’ Step-by-Step Instructions

πŸ₯£ Step 1: Prepare the Batter

 

In a large bowl, whisk together besan, semolina, salt, sugar, and ginger-chili paste.

 

Gradually add water and mix until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.

 

Add lemon juice and mix again.

 

Just before steaming, add eno fruit salt and stir gently in one direction. The batter will become frothy β€” don’t overmix!

 

πŸ’‘ Tip: Steam immediately after adding eno so the dhokla turns out soft and fluffy.

 

🍽️ Step 2: Steam the Dhokla

 

Grease a dhokla plate or any flat-bottomed pan with a few drops of oil.

 

Pour the batter into the greased pan, filling it only halfway (it will rise).

 

Steam in a steamer or large pot for 15–18 minutes on medium heat.

 

To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center β€” it should come out clean.

 

Once done, remove from the steamer and let it cool slightly before cutting into squares.

 

🌿 Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

 

Heat oil in a small pan.

 

Add mustard seeds and let them pop.

 

Add green chilies and curry leaves.

 

Add 1 cup water, sugar, and lemon juice, then bring to a quick boil.

 

Pour this hot tempering evenly over the steamed dhokla pieces.

 

πŸ’‘ Tip: The tempering keeps dhokla moist and gives it that authentic flavor.

 

🍴 Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

 

Garnish your dhokla with:

 

Fresh coriander leaves 🌿

 

Grated coconut (optional) πŸ₯₯

 

Serve warm or at room temperature with green chutney or sweet tamarind chutney for the perfect snack combo!

 

πŸ’› Tips for the Best Dhokla Ever

 

Always add eno last β€” it helps your dhokla rise perfectly.

 

Avoid overmixing after adding eno; mix just enough to combine.

 

Steam on medium heat β€” too high can make it dry or crack on top.

 

If it turns dry, sprinkle a little warm sugar-lemon water before serving.

 

Use fresh besan for best texture and taste.

 

🌢️ Variations to Try

🟑 Khaman Dhokla (Classic Version)

 

Traditional and extra spongy β€” perfect for beginners.

 

🌾 Rava Dhokla (Sooji Dhokla)

 

Made entirely with semolina and yogurt β€” light and slightly tangy.

 

πŸ₯• Vegetable Dhokla

 

Add grated carrots, spinach, or beetroot for a colorful and healthy twist.

 

πŸ§€ Cheese Dhokla

 

Top with shredded cheese before serving for a fusion snack.

 

❀️ Why You’ll Love This Easy Dhokla Recipe

 

Ready in under 30 minutes

 

Healthy, low-fat, and protein-rich

 

Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or tiffin

 

Soft, spongy, and full of flavor

 

Made with simple pantry ingredients

 

🌟 Conclusion: Make Dhokla Anytime, Anywhere!

 

This easy dhokla recipe for busy days is the perfect way to bring authentic Indian flavors to your table β€” even when you’re short on time. Steamed to perfection, soaked with tangy-sweet tempering, and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish you’ll love to make again and again!

 

So grab your steamer, whisk that batter, and in just a few minutes, you’ll be enjoying soft, spongy, golden dhokla β€” the ultimate comfort snack. πŸ’›