The soft, spongy texture and well-balanced tangy-sweet flavour of this traditional Gujarati snack have made it a favourite throughout India. Known for its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and cozy flavour, dhokla is traditionally created with a fermented gram flour (besan) batter and drizzled with a fragrant tempering. With no guilt, this oil-free dhokla has all the flavour.
Because it’s steamed instead of fried, this steamed snack recipe stays low in calories while remaining nourishing and satisfying. High in fibre, rich in plant-based protein, and packed with essential vitamins, it’s the perfect weight loss snack. Since it comes together quickly, it’s also an instant dhokla recipe, when you wish to have something healthy yet delicious without spending much time in the kitchen.
This low-calorie snack is ideal for breakfast, teatime, or a post-workout snack because it is high in fibre, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins. It’s easy to digest and ideal for people on vegan, low-fat, or heart-healthy diets because it’s steamed rather than fried. This steamed snack recipe, which is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and high in plant-based protein, is both filling and nutritious.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
- Healthy yet tasty snack which is very versatile.
- It’s a low calorie, high in protein, fibre & essential vitamins
- Naturally vegan & gluten -free.
Ingredients:
- Besan (Gram Flour) – 1 Cup
- Rava – 1 Tbsp (optional)
- Chillies – 2 finely chopped
- Ginger – 1’’ Grated
- Water – ¾ to 1 Cup, to achieve desired consistency of the batter
- Sugar – 1 Tsp
- Coriander – ¼ Cup, finely chopped
- Curry Leaves – ¼ Cup, finely chopped
- Mustard Seeds – ½ Tsp
- Jeera – ½ Tsp
- Hing – 1 Pinch
- Eno Fruit Salt – 1 Tsp
- Salt – As per taste
- Lime – 1 Lemon juice
Method:
- In a steamer, put 2 cups of water and heat over a slow flame.
- In a vessel or a pan, mix all the ingredients except Eno Fruit Salt and lime juice. Ensure to make a smooth paste. There should be no lumps.
- Lastly, add Eno Fruit Salt and stir in one direction for one minute & pour into the greased plate.
- Steam over medium flame for 10-12 mins.
- Insert a toothpick/knife to check; if it comes out clean, the Dhokla is ready.
- Cut the dhokla into small squares using a knife. Garnish it with coriander, pepper and drizzle the lime juice on top.
- Serve with green coriander mint chutney.
Pro Tips:
- Manage batter consistency – Make sure the batter has a flowing consistency, it should be neither too thick nor too thin, to achieve the perfect texture.
- Use fresh Eno – Always check that the Eno is fresh and active, old or expired Eno won’t give you that light, spongy texture.
- Steam on medium heat – This ensures steady, even cooking and a soft texture.
- Avoid opening the lid while steaming – Lifting the lid early lets the steam escape, which can cause uneven cooking. Wait till at least 10 minutes before checking the dhokla
- Check Doneness – Insert a knife or toothpick into the dhokla, it should come out clean. If it’s sticky, steam for 2–3 more minutes.
- Rest it for few minutes – Allowing it to rest for a few minutes makes slicing cleaner and prevents the pieces from breaking apart.
FAQs:
- Is it possible to substitute baking soda for Eno?
You can, indeed. You can use ½ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon lemon juice, but Eno produces a more even rise.
- How can I make Dhokla without oil completely?
Skip greasing by lining your steaming plate with parchment paper, and prepare the tempering (if used) with water or lemon juice instead of oil.
- What’s the ideal consistency of the oil free dhokla batter?
The oil free dhokla batter should be thick yet pourable like a pancake batter. Too thick batter will make it dry & too thin will make it soggy.
- How long should I steam dhokla?
Steam the Dhoklas for about 10–12 minutes on medium flame.
- What can I pair the oil free dhokla with?
Pair the Dhokla a serving of curd or chaas, add a bowl of salad / soup to make it a wholesome, balanced meal.
- Is this steamed snack recipe good for weight loss?
Yes! Since this version uses no oil, is high on protein, making it low on calories and therefore it’s an ideal recipe for weight loss.
- Can I add vegetables in this instant dhokla recipe?
Yes, you can boost the nutrition content by adding grated carrots / beetroot, spinach juice, etc. This adds flavour and enhances the nutritional value of the recipe.
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