Gujarati Khaman Dhokla: Recipe, Ingredients, Tips and Pairing Ideas
What is Dhokla & Khaman Dhokla?
Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla are popular Indian snacks hailing from Gujrat. Due to its unique flavors and taste it has earned global recognition. Both Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla are not only delicious but also nutritious. Most importantly, they offer many health benefits as they are low in are low in calories, rich in protein, and provide essential nutrients. Though Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla have become popular street foods in India and are readily available in restaurants and food stalls. You can easily make them at home. Here will learn how to make Khaman dhokla recipe at home.
Difference Between Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla
These differences in ingredients, flavor profiles, preparation methods, textures, and serving styles distinguish Dhokla from Khaman Dhokla, despite both being popular snacks from Gujarat. Certainly, here are the key differences between Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla presented in bullet points:
Dhokla:
- Originates from the state of Gujarat, India.
- Main Dhokla ingredients include rice and chickpea flour (besan).
- Typically has a sour and slightly spicy flavor due to fermentation and seasoning.
- Prepared using a fermented batter.
- Softer and more porous texture.
- Traditionally served with green chutney and fried mustard seeds and curry leaves tempering.
Khaman Dhokla:
- Also originates from Gujarat, India.
- Main Khaman Dhokla ingredients is gram flour (besan).
- Has a sweet and sour taste.
- Prepared using an unfermented batter.
- Fluffier and denser texture compared to Dhokla.
- Often garnished with chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut.
- Served with a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney or green chutney.
Find out the Perfect Gujarati Khaman Dhokla Recipe
Khaman Dhokla is known for its sweet and sour flavor, soft and fluffy texture, and delightful taste. Gujarati dhokla recipe is not only a delightful snack but also a healthy option, as it's low in calories and easy to digest. Therefore, it is not only popular in Gujarat but has also gained popularity all over India and even internationally. Making the perfect Khaman Dhokla at home is easier than you might think. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a plate of delicious Khaman Dhokla that will surely impress your family and friends.
See Also: Aloo Tikki Recipe
Khaman Dhokla Ingredients
For the Batter: (H3)
1 cup gram flour (besan)
1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
1/2 cup yogurt (dahi)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons green chili paste (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon Eno fruit salt (or 1/2 teaspoon baking soda)
For Tempering:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1-2 green chilies, slit
A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
A few curry leaves
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
Grated coconut for garnish (optional)
How to Make Khaman Dhokla
Follow the steps of the instant dhokla recipe for a hassle-free cooking experience and enjoy freshly steamed dhoklas in minutes.
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), semolina (sooji), yogurt (dahi), and water. Mix well until you get a smooth batter without any lumps.
- Add vegetable oil, sugar, green chili paste, ginger paste, turmeric powder, and salt to the batter. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, and the batter will become slightly thicker.
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In a separate small bowl, dissolve the Eno fruit salt (or baking soda) in 1-2 tablespoons of water. Stir it into the batter immediately. You will notice that the batter will become frothy and increase in volume. Mix gently, but do not overmix.
- Grease a plate or a dhokla steamer tray with some oil to prevent sticking. Make sure it fits comfortably in your steamer.
- Pour the prepared batter into the greased plate or tray, filling it about 2/3 full. Tap the plate on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Heat water in your steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack. Place the plate or tray with the batter inside the steamer.
- Steam the batter for approximately 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the dhokla comes out clean. Be sure to keep the steamer covered while steaming.
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Once done, remove the plate or tray from the steamer and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut into pieces.
- In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add green chilies, asafoetida (hing), and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until the chilies become slightly tender.
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Add 2 tablespoons of water, sugar, and lemon juice to the tempering mixture. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Pour the prepared tempering mixture evenly over the steamed Khaman Dhokla.
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Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut if desired.
- Allow the Khaman Dhokla to cool for a few more minutes before slicing it into squares or diamond shapes.
- Serve the Khaman Dhokla with green chutney or tamarind chutney for a delightful snack or appetizer.
- Now, you have successfully prepared the perfect Gujarati Khaman Dhokla at home. Enjoy this delicious and fluffy snack with your loved ones, and relish the sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that make it a favorite among Indian snacks. This instant dhokla recipe offers a quick and convenient way to prepare this traditional Indian snack in no time.
Serve Khaman Dhokla with Soul Foods Chutneys
Instant dhokla is a quick and fuss-free version of the traditional Gujarati dhokla, perfect for those craving a snack in a hurry. To elevate your Khaman Dhokla experience to new heights, pair this delectable Gujarati snack with a range of flavorful chutneys from Soul Foods. Instant dhokla is a go-to option for a speedy and delectable treat, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or light meals. Follow the authentic Gujarati dhokla recipe to create savory and spongy dhoklas that are a staple in Gujarati cuisine. Pair it with delicious chutneys not only enhance the taste but also add a burst of diverse flavors to your plate.
Green Chutney:
Soul Foods' Green Chutney is a zesty and refreshing accompaniment that perfectly complements the soft and spongy Khaman Dhokla. Made from fresh coriander leaves, mint, green chilies, and a blend of spices, it provides a delightful contrast with the sweet and sour notes of the dhokla.
Tamarind Chutney:
For those who prefer a sweeter and tangier twist, Soul Foods' Tamarind Chutney is the ideal choice. Its rich, sweet-tangy flavor enhances the overall taste of Khaman Dhokla, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Garlic Chutney:
Soul Foods' Garlic Chutney is a bold and spicy option for those who crave an extra kick. The fiery blend of garlic, red chilies, and spices adds depth and heat to your dhokla, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Whether you prefer the refreshing Green Chutney, the sweet and tangy Tamarind Chutney, or the bold flavors of the Garlic Chutney, Soul Foods offers a range of chutneys that cater to every palate. So, serve your Khaman Dhokla with these Soul Foods chutneys and experience that will leave your taste buds delighted and satisfied.
Tips to Make Soft and Spongy Dhoklas:
Creating the perfect batch of soft and spongy besan Khaman Dhokla recipe can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve the right texture that makes these irresistible. Here are some valuable tips to help you to make Dhoklas:
Proper Fermentation: Ensure that you allow the batter to ferment for the right amount of time. Fermentation is key to achieving the characteristic airy and spongy texture of Dhoklas. Let the batter rest for at least 4-6 hours or overnight, depending on the ambient temperature.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh gram flour (besan) and yogurt. Fresh ingredients ensure a better fermentation process and a smoother batter.
Right Puffiness : After adding Eno fruit salt or baking soda, gently fold the batter. Avoid vigorous stirring, as this can deflate the air bubbles and result in denser Dhoklas.
Steaming Technique: Make sure your steamer is preheated and ready before pouring the batter. Steam the Dhokla over high heat for the first 5 minutes and then reduce the heat to medium to maintain a steady steam. Steam them without opening the lid during the initial cooking phase.
Test to check the thickness: To check if Dhoklas are done, insert a toothpick or a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Overcooking can make them dry.
Tempering: The batter for besan dhokla is seasoned with ginger, green chilies, and a hint of asafoetida for a savory kick. This enhances their taste and aroma.
By following these tips, you can create Gujrati Dhokla recipe that is not only soft and spongy but also bursting with flavor. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, the Gujarati dhokla recipe offers a satisfying culinary experience that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat. Enjoy this delicious khaman dhokla with your family and friends with soulfoods chutney.
See Also: Khasta Kachori Recipe
Conclusion
As we know, Khaman and Dhokla are popular Indian snacks originating from the state of Gujarat. Furthermore, we have also discussed the differences between the two, including their rich flavors and typical Indian culinary ingredients. Dhokla recipes are prepared using techniques such as fermentation, steaming, and tempering to achieve the desired spongy texture, making them the most favourite snack. To enhance their flavor, try various chutneys, such as green chutney, tamarind chutney, or garlic chutney. Both Dhokla and Khaman Dhokla exemplify the diversity and creativity of Indian cuisine. Homemade dhoklas can cater to personal preferences and delight the palates of loved ones. So, give this easy-to-make Khaman dhokla a try at home.
