Khaman Dhokla is a popular savory steamed snack from Gujarat, India. It’s made from fermented chickpea flour (besan) and is light, fluffy, and delicious. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Dhokla:
- 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
- 1/4 cup rice flour (optional, for a softer texture)
- 1/2 cup yogurt (optional for added softness)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Eno fruit salt or baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Water (for batter consistency)
- 1 tbsp oil
For tempering:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1-2 green chilies, slit
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
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Step 1: Prepare the Dhokla batter
- Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine besan, rice flour, sugar, turmeric, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the ginger-green chili paste, yogurt (if using), and oil. Mix well.
- Make a smooth batter: Add water gradually to form a smooth batter with a pouring consistency.
- Add Eno or baking soda: Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt or baking soda. Mix quickly, and you’ll see the batter fluff up.
Step 2: Steam the Dhokla
- Prepare the steamer: Grease a steaming dish or tray and set it in the steamer. The water in the steamer should be boiling before you place the batter.
- Pour the batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased dish and smooth the surface.
- Steam: Cover and steam for 15-20 minutes on medium heat, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool slightly: Once steamed, let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the tempering
- Make the tempering: Heat oil in a small pan, and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves.
- Add sugar and water: Add sugar and water to the tempering mixture, and cook for a minute until it forms a slightly syrupy consistency.
- Pour over the dhokla: Pour this tempering over the steamed dhokla.
Step 4: Serve
- Cut into pieces: Once the tempering has soaked in, cut the dhokla into square or diamond-shaped pieces.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with green chutney and sweet chutney.
Enjoy your homemade Khaman Dhokla!