
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, itβs ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious and homemade. πΏ
π 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. Itβs soft, airy, slightly tangy, and often garnished with a fragrant tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves.
Itβs gluten-free, steamed instead of fried, and packed with protein β making it a healthy and satisfying snack option.
π§ Ingredients for Easy Dhokla Recipe
For the Batter:
1 cup gram flour (besan)
2 tbsp semolina (rava/sooji) β 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
1β2 green chilies, slit
8β10 curry leaves
1 cup water
2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
π Step-by-Step Instructions
π₯£ 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 donβt overmix!
π‘ Tip: Steam immediately after adding eno so the dhokla turns out soft and fluffy.
π½οΈ 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 15β18 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.
πΏ 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.
π‘ Tip: The tempering keeps dhokla moist and gives it that authentic flavor.
π΄ Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your dhokla with:
Fresh coriander leaves πΏ
Grated coconut (optional) π₯₯
Serve warm or at room temperature with green chutney or sweet tamarind chutney for the perfect snack combo!
π 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.
πΆοΈ Variations to Try
π‘ Khaman Dhokla (Classic Version)
Traditional and extra spongy β perfect for beginners.
πΎ Rava Dhokla (Sooji Dhokla)
Made entirely with semolina and yogurt β light and slightly tangy.
π₯ Vegetable Dhokla
Add grated carrots, spinach, or beetroot for a colorful and healthy twist.
π§ Cheese Dhokla
Top with shredded cheese before serving for a fusion snack.
β€οΈ Why Youβll 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
π 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 youβre short on time. Steamed to perfection, soaked with tangy-sweet tempering, and bursting with flavor, itβs a dish youβll love to make again and again!
So grab your steamer, whisk that batter, and in just a few minutes, youβll be enjoying soft, spongy, golden dhokla β the ultimate comfort snack. π