Khaman Dhokla
A classic Gujarati snack! These light, fluffy, and spongy steamed cakes are made from gram flour, perfectly savory and tangy. A healthy, low-fat treat ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Grease a 7-inch round or square pan with a few drops of oil.
- b.Pour 2 cups of water into a steamer or a large pot and bring it to a boil.
- c.Place a small stand or trivet inside the steamer.
TIPGetting the steamer ready before mixing the batter is crucial for a fluffy result. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.Just before steaming, add the fruit salt (Eno) and the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter.
- b.Gently but quickly mix in one direction until the batter becomes frothy and light. Do not overmix.
- c.Immediately pour the batter into the greased pan.
- d.Place the pan in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam on high heat for 15-18 minutes.
TIPWork quickly after adding the fruit salt, as its leavening power starts to diminish after a minute. - 4
Step 4
- 5
Step 5
- 6
Step 6
- a.Carefully run a knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the dhokla.
- b.Invert the pan onto a plate. The dhokla should slide out easily.
- c.Cut the dhokla into 2-inch squares or diamond shapes.
- d.Pour the hot tempering evenly over the pieces.
- 7
Step 7
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure your batter is lump-free for a smooth texture. Sifting the besan helps.
- 2The consistency of the batter is key. It should be a smooth, flowing consistency.
- 3Do not open the steamer lid for the first 10-12 minutes of cooking, as it can cause the dhokla to sink.
- 4Use fresh fruit salt (Eno) for the best rise. An old packet won't be as effective.
- 5Let the dhokla cool slightly before adding the tempering and cutting, which helps in getting clean pieces.
Adapt it for your goals.
Jain
To make a Jain version, simply omit the ginger paste from the batter.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Skip the green chilies in the batter and tempering to make it non-spicy for kids.
quickQuick
For an even faster version, you can use a store-bought instant Khaman Dhokla mix and follow the package instructions.
healthyHealthy
This recipe is already low-fat and healthy. To boost fiber, add 2 tablespoons of finely grated carrot or zucchini to the batter.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Gram flour (besan) is a good source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Gluten-Free
Made entirely from gram flour, this snack is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Good for Diabetics
Besan has a low glycemic index, which means it releases sugar into the bloodstream slowly, helping to manage blood sugar levels.
Easy to Digest
Being steamed and light, Khaman Dhokla is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest compared to fried snacks.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Khaman Dhokla is a very healthy snack. It's steamed, not fried, making it low in fat and calories. The main ingredient, besan (gram flour), is rich in protein and fiber and is naturally gluten-free.