The Ultimate Dhokla Platter
Dhokla, a popular steamed savory snack from Gujarat, is light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The Ultimate Dhokla Platter is a celebration of different varieties of dhokla, accompanied by chutneys, garnishes, and sides that take this snack to a whole new level. Perfect for a gathering or a delightful meal!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Basic Dhokla:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/2 cup yogurt (for extra fluffiness)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste
- 1 tsp eno (fruit salt)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1/2 cup water (adjust to get a thick batter)
For the Tempering:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1-2 dried red chilies
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
For the Vegetable Dhokla:
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach or coriander
- 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp green chili paste
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Grated coconut (optional)
- Finely chopped onions (optional)
Accompaniments:
- Fresh green chutney (coriander-mint)
- Sweet tamarind chutney
- Spicy red chili chutney (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Basic Dhokla Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, yogurt, turmeric powder, ginger-green chili paste, sugar, and salt.
- Add water gradually to make a smooth, thick batter.
- Add lemon juice and oil, then mix well.
- Just before steaming, add eno fruit salt to the batter and mix gently. You’ll notice the batter will rise slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Dhokla
- Divide the basic batter into two portions. In one portion, mix in the grated carrots, chopped spinach (or coriander), peas, and green chili paste. Add salt as needed.
- The second portion will remain plain (basic dhokla batter).
Step 3: Steam the Dhoklas
- Grease a steaming tray or idli molds with oil.
- For a mixed platter, pour the vegetable batter into one section of the tray and the plain batter into another.
- Steam for 15-20 minutes on medium heat or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the tray and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, gently cut into squares or diamonds.
Step 4: Tempering
- Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and sesame seeds (optional). Let the spices release their fragrance.
- Pour this tempering evenly over the steamed dhokla.
Step 5: Assemble The Ultimate Dhokla Platter
- Arrange the plain dhokla and vegetable dhokla on a serving platter, alternating if desired for variety.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, grated coconut, and finely chopped onions.
- Serve with the fresh green chutney, sweet tamarind chutney, and spicy red chili chutney on the side.
Serve and Enjoy
- The Ultimate Dhokla Platter is now ready to be enjoyed! The combination of light and fluffy dhoklas with tangy, spicy, and sweet chutneys creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Tips:
- Ensure the water used for steaming is boiling hot before placing the dhokla tray in.
- You can add a dash of ginger juice or garlic paste to the batter for additional flavor.
- The sweet tamarind chutney complements the savory dhokla beautifully, while the spicy chutney gives it a zing.
Enjoy this Ultimate Dhokla Platter with your loved ones—it’s an ideal dish for parties, picnics, or just a cozy meal at home! 🌟