By eatmundo · July 12, 2026
A light and airy steamed cake from Gujarat that is both savory and slightly tangy. It serves as the perfect tea-time snack or a healthy breakfast.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Whisk 250g of gram flour (besan) with 150ml of yogurt and 150ml of water in a large bowl until the batter is smooth, pourable and free of any lumps.
- 2
Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter, mix well and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
- 3
Stir in 2 teaspoons of fruit salt just before steaming, mixing gently in one direction; the batter will turn frothy and visibly expand.
- 4
Pour the mixture immediately into an 8-inch wide steaming pan greased with 1 teaspoon of oil, tapping it gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
- 5
Steam the batter over high heat in a covered steamer for 15 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 6
Remove the pan from the steamer and let it cool for 5 minutes; this prevents the cake from breaking when you cut it.
- 7
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a small pan, add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and wait for them to pop and crackle; then add 60ml of water and 1 teaspoon of sugar, bring to a boil and pour evenly over the cut pieces.
- 8
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve warm to enjoy the soft, spongy texture that makes this dish famous.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Khaman Dhokla?
Khaman Dhokla is a steamed savory snack originating from the Indian state of Gujarat. It is made from gram flour (besan), yogurt and turmeric, leavened with fruit salt rather than by fermentation, and is typically eaten for breakfast or as a light afternoon snack.
Why is my dhokla dense?
The batter likely lacks enough aeration; ensure you steam it immediately after adding the fruit salt.
Can I use besan flour?
Yes, besan or gram flour is exactly what is needed for this traditional recipe.
How long does it keep?
It stays fresh for up to two days if refrigerated in an airtight container.
Is it spicy?
No, this version is mild and tangy; its flavor comes from ginger, lemon juice, mustard seeds and a hint of turmeric.
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