Simple Dhokla Recipe and interesting facts

 

Dhokla



Dhokla Recipe

Soft & Spongy Gujarati Snack

Ingredients

  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 1 tbsp semolina (sooji)
  • 1 tsp ginger-chili paste
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fruit salt (eno)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 3/4 cup water

For Tempering:

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 2-3 green chilies (slit)
  • 8-10 curry leaves
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp chopped coriander
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix gram flour, semolina, ginger-chili paste, lemon juice, turmeric, sugar and salt.
  2. Add water gradually to make smooth batter without lumps.
  3. Grease a steaming plate or dhokla stand with oil.
  4. Just before steaming, add fruit salt to batter and mix gently.
  5. Pour batter immediately into greased plate and steam for 12-15 minutes.
  6. Check with toothpick - if it comes out clean, dhokla is ready.
  7. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then cut into squares.

For Tempering:

  1. Heat oil in small pan, add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  2. Add sesame seeds, green chilies and curry leaves, sauté for few seconds.
  3. Add 2 tbsp water and pour this tempering over dhoklas evenly.
  4. Garnish with chopped coriander and grated coconut.
  5. Serve with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Tips

  • For softer dhoklas, use slightly more water in batter
  • Steam immediately after adding fruit salt
  • You can replace eno with 1/2 tsp baking soda + 1 tsp lemon juice
  • For colorful dhokla, add beetroot or spinach puree

Enjoy your homemade dhokla!

Preparation time: 25 mins | Serves: 4

10 Fascinating Facts About Dhokla

The Sunshine Yellow Snack of Gujarat

1. Ancient Origins

Dhokla traces its roots to the 12th century Gujarati text "Manasollasa" where it was called "Dhukkia." This makes it one of India's oldest documented fermented foods. Originally made with rice and urad dal, the modern gram flour version became popular only in the 20th century.

2. Microbial Magic

Traditional dhokla fermentation relies on wild microbes called "Lactic Acid Bacteria" (LAB) present in the environment. These tiny organisms work overnight to create dhokla's signature tangy flavor and spongy texture. Modern recipes use eno fruit salt as a shortcut, but purists argue the taste is never quite the same.

3. Nutritional Powerhouse

A single serving of dhokla provides 15% of your daily protein needs with just 150 calories. The fermentation process increases bioavailability of nutrients, making it rich in B-vitamins, especially folate. Its low glycemic index (GI 15-20) makes it diabetic-friendly, earning it the nickname "the guilt-free snack."

4. Regional Variations

Khaman Dhokla: The classic yellow version
Rasia Dhokla: Soaked in spicy buttermilk
Sandwich Dhokla: Layered with chutney
Toor Dal Dhokla: Made with pigeon peas
Khatta Dhokla: Extra sour version from Saurashtra

5. Global Ambassador

Dhokla was declared Gujarat's "state food" in 2021. It's so popular internationally that NASA included dehydrated dhokla in astronauts' menus during the 2010 space missions. In Japan, a modified version called "Dokla" is served with wasabi tempering!

6. Cultural Significance

In Gujarati households, dhokla is considered auspicious. It's mandatory during:
- Ganesh Chaturthi (first offering)
- Diwali (symbolizes prosperity)
- Wedding feasts (represents new beginnings)
The golden color is believed to attract positive energy according to Vastu Shastra.

7. Scientific Marvel

Researchers at IIT Delhi discovered dhokla's unique aerated structure makes it an ideal model for studying porous materials. The perfect air pockets occur due to CO₂ release during fermentation - about 1 million bubbles per square inch!

8. World Records

- Longest dhokla chain: 1.2 km (Ahmedabad, 2018)
- Largest dhokla: 225 kg (Surat, 2020)
- Fastest dhokla making: 147 pieces in 30 mins
The "Dhokla King" Harish Kotecha holds 7 Guinness records related to dhokla!

9. Modern Twists

Dhokla Waffles: Cooked in waffle makers
Dhokla Sushi: Rolled with avocado
Chocolate Dhokla: Sweet dessert version
Dhokla Pizza: With tomato-cheese topping
Ice Cream Dhokla: Served frozen with syrup

10. Economic Impact

India's dhokla industry is worth ₹2,800 crore annually, growing at 18% CAGR. The ready-to-cook dhokla mix market alone sells 25,000 tons yearly. Ahmedabad's "Dhokla Street" has 47 shops selling 20,000 plates daily, making it Gujarat's most profitable snack!

"Dhokla isn't just food - it's edible happiness wrapped in golden sunshine."

~ Gujarati Proverb

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