How to Prepare Dhokla: A Delicious and Easy Gujarati Snack
Dhokla is a popular and delicious Gujarati snack that is loved by people of all ages. Made with a fermented batter, dhokla is known for its soft, spongy texture and savory taste. Whether you are a vegetarian or not, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to prepare dhokla at home.
Ingredients
Before you start preparing dhokla, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is what you will need:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix the besan, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, ginger-green chili paste, and salt together. Ensure that all the dry ingredients are well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt and water until smooth. Gradually add the yogurt mixture to the besan mixture, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps.
3. Add the baking soda to the batter and mix well. Let the batter sit for about 30 minutes to allow it to ferment. This fermentation process is crucial for the perfect texture of the dhokla.
4. While the batter is fermenting, heat some oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they start to crackle, remove the pan from the heat and pour the oil over the batter. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.
5. Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil and pour the batter into it. Tap the dish gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the dish inside. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dhokla is cooked through.
7. Once done, remove the dhokla from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, cut it into squares or triangles using a sharp knife.
8. Serve the dhokla hot with your choice of chutney or mint sauce. Enjoy this delightful Gujarati snack as a snack, breakfast, or as a side dish with your meal.
Now that you know how to prepare dhokla, you can easily make this delicious snack at home. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and toppings to create your own unique version of this classic dish. Happy cooking!
