Dhokla, a cherished snack originating from the heart of Gujarat, India, undergoes a delightful transformation in this recipe. Traditionally made from a fermented batter of rice and chickpeas, this version elevates the classic with the infusion of zesty lemon and the subtle sweetness of coconut. The result is a light, spongy cake that dances on the palate with a balance of tangy and sweet, offering a refreshing twist on the timeless favorite. The soft texture of the dhokla combined with the aromatic tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves, finished with a generous sprinkle of fresh coconut, makes each bite a memorable experience.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• 4 servings

From Your Pantry

• Rice flour: 1 cup
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• Chickpea flour (Besan): 1 cup
• Coconut milk: 1 cup
• Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons
• Fresh grated coconut: 1/2 cup
• Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh curry leaves: 8-10
• Green chilies: 2, finely chopped
• Eno fruit salt: 1 teaspoon

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, mix the rice flour, chickpea flour, turmeric, salt, sugar, and coconut milk. Stir until smooth and no lumps remain.
2. Allow the batter to ferment in a warm place for 4-6 hours.
3. Once fermented, add the lemon juice and Eno fruit salt to the batter, mixing gently until it becomes light and fluffy.
4. Pour the batter into a greased steaming tray. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. For the tempering, heat sesame oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds, and let them splutter. Add chopped green chilies and curry leaves, frying briefly.
6. Pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla. Sprinkle fresh grated coconut over the top.
7. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Expert Tips

• Ensure the batter is fermented well to achieve the perfect spongy texture.
• Adding Eno fruit salt just before steaming will make the dhokla light and fluffy.
• For an extra zesty flavor, zest a lemon into the batter before steaming.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Coconut Dhokla as a refreshing snack at your next gathering, or enjoy it as a light lunch. Pair it with a side of mint or coriander chutney for a delightful contrast of flavors. A chilled glass of sweet lassi or a hot cup of masala tea complements this dish perfectly, making for a truly satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Allergens: Sesame oil, Chickpea Flour

We hope you enjoy this creative twist on the traditional Dhokla. Feel free to share your rendition of this recipe and encourage others to add their personal touch. Cooking is an art that thrives on innovation and personal expression, so don't hesitate to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours.