How to Make Besan Dhokla Recipe

Step into the world of savoury elegance with Besan Dhokla, a popular Indian snack that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This light and fluffy steamed dish, originating from the western state of Gujarat, is a favourite among those who appreciate the fusion of flavours and textures. In this detailed guide, we will explore the essence of Besan Dhokla, uncover the key ingredients that contribute to its unique taste, provide step-by-step instructions on creating this culinary delight, and offer valuable quick tips for a perfect outcome. Let’s embark on a journey to master the Besan Dhokla Recipe, where simplicity meets culinary finesse.

Besan Dhokla is a steamed cake made primarily from besan (gram flour) and flavoured with aromatic spices. Known for its spongy texture and tangy taste, this dish has become a beloved part of Indian cuisine, enjoyed as a snack, breakfast item, or even as a light meal. The fermentation process, coupled with the use of eno (fruit salt), gives Besan Dhokla its characteristic airy and porous structure.

1. Besan (Gram Flour):

- 1 cup of besan forms the base of the dhokla, providing a nutty and earthy flavour.

2. Curd (Yogurt):

- 1/2 cup of curd adds a hint of tanginess and aids in the fermentation process.

3. Water:

- 1/4 cup of water for the batter and additional water as needed.

4. Eno (Fruit Salt):

- 1 teaspoon of eno acts as a leavening agent, contributing to the dhokla's fluffiness.

5. Ginger-Green Chili Paste:

- A paste made from ginger and green chillies provides a spicy kick to the dhokla.

6. Turmeric Powder:

- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder adds a warm colour to the dhokla.

7. Mustard Seeds and Curry Leaves:

- For the tempering, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and a few curry leaves are used.

8. Oil:

- 1 tablespoon of oil for tempering and additional oil for greasing.

1. Prepare the Batter:

- In a mixing bowl, combine besan, curd, water, ginger-green chilli paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Whisk the mixture into a smooth batter, ensuring there are no lumps.

2. Ferment the Batter:

- Allow the batter to ferment for 3-4 hours or until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving the desired spongy texture.

3. Add Eno and Steam:

- Just before steaming, add eno to the batter and mix gently. Pour the batter into a greased dhokla plate or any flat, heatproof vessel. Steam the batter for 15-20 minutes until it is cooked through.

4. Prepare the Tempering:

- In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Allow them to splutter, then pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla.

5. Cut into Pieces:

- Once the dhokla cools slightly, cut it into squares or desired shapes.

1. Perfect Consistency:

- Achieve the right consistency for the batter by adding water gradually and whisking well to avoid lumps.

2. Timely Fermentation:

- Ensure the batter ferments for the recommended time to attain the ideal spongy texture.

3. Test with a Toothpick:

- To check if the dhokla is cooked, insert a toothpick into the centre; it should come out clean.

Elevate your culinary skills and treat your taste buds to the airy perfection of Besan Dhokla. Whether served as a snack, breakfast, or light meal, this dish never fails to impress with its spongy texture and delightful flavour. Follow our detailed guide, savour the blend of spices and gram flour, and enjoy the simple yet sophisticated experience of crafting Besan Dhokla. Let the steam and spices infuse your kitchen with the authentic charm of Indian cuisine.