Cultural signature · Gujarat

Khaman Dhokla Recipe | How to Make Soft & Spongy Dhokla at Home

“Khaman Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack made with besan (gram flour), loved for its soft, fluffy and spongy texture. Over time, this traditional Gujarati recipe has become a favourite across India. For me, a plate of freshly steamed khaman with green chutney and tamraind chutney is the perfect homemade snack with a cup of chai.”

Prep
15m
Cook
20m
Serves
4
Spice
Medium
Khaman dhokla with green chutney

Instructions

  1. 01

    Prepare the batter

    In a large bowl, add besan, sooji, sugar, turmeric and salt. Mix well.

  2. 02

    Season the batter

    Add ginger-green chilli paste, lemon juice and oil. Gradually add water while whisking to make a smooth, lump-free batter. The batter should be thick but pourable.

  3. 03

    Rest the batter

    Let it rest for about 5 minutes while you prepare the steamer.

  4. 04

    Prepare the steamer

    Grease a steaming tray with a little oil and bring water to a boil in the steamer

  5. 05

    Add Eno

    Just before steaming, add 1 tsp Eno to the batter. Sprinkle 1 tbsp water over it and gently fold in one direction until the batter becomes light and airy. Do not overmix.

  6. 06

    Steam

    Immediately pour the batter into the greased tray. Place it in the steamer and steam on medium heat for 15–20 minutes.

  7. 07

    Check with toothpick

    If it comes out clean, remove the tray and let the khaman cool for a few minutes.

  8. 08

    Cut the khaman into squares

    Cut the khaman into squares

  9. 09

    Prepare the tempering

    Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds. Once they crackle, add sesame seeds, curry leaves and slit green chillies. Add ¼ cup water and sugar. Bring it to a quick boil. Pour the tempering evenly over the steamed khaman.

  10. 10

    Garnish with fresh coriander and grated coconut

    Garnish with fresh coriander and grated coconut

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve soft and fluffy instant khaman with green chutney and sweet chutney, alongside a hot cup of chai.

The Story

A light Gujarati snack with a delicate sweet-sour balance.