Chana Dal Flour Dhokla

Name: Chana Dal Flour Dhokla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: Chana Dal Flour Dhokla

Lunch • India

kcal

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Protein

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Carbs

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Fat

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How to Make Chana Dal Flour Dhokla (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

Easy

Chana Dal Flour Dhokla is a wholesome and protein-rich steamed snack from the vibrant kitchens of West India, particularly Gujarat. This dhokla swaps the usual besan (gram flour) with chana dal flour, known locally as 'chana dal ka atta', making it extra nutritious and unique. Dhokla is a beloved vegetarian dish, often enjoyed during lunch and festive occasions like Navratri and Diwali, where light, steamed foods are preferred for their digestibility and health benefits. Its soft, spongy texture and tangy flavor profile have made it a favorite across Indian households. The preparation involves steaming a batter made from chana dal flour, curd (dahi), and a blend of traditional spices. The tempering with mustard seeds (rai), curry leaves (kari patta), and green chilies adds a fragrant, savory touch that is quintessentially Gujarati. It's a great choice for calorie-conscious eaters, as it's low in fat and high in plant-based protein, making it suitable for lunch or even as a light breakfast. Chana Dal Flour Dhokla is also popular in Jain and vegan communities, with easy adaptations to meet dietary preferences. This dish is not just a culinary delight but also a cultural staple, representing the ingenuity of Indian cooking where healthy, steamed foods are favored, especially during festivals and family gatherings. The use of chana dal flour brings a subtle nutty taste and extra nutritional value, ensuring you enjoy both flavor and fitness in every bite.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Ingredients(for 2 medium dhokla pieces per person)

1 cup Chana dal flour (chana dal ka atta)
1/2 cup Curd (dahi)
1/2 cup Water (as needed for batter)
1 tsp Eno fruit salt (for fluffiness)
1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
1 tsp Green chili paste (hari mirch)
1 tsp Ginger paste (adrak)
1/2 tsp Salt (namak)
1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
8-10 Curry leaves (kari patta)
2 tsp Oil (for tempering)
1 tbsp Coriander leaves (dhaniya, chopped) - optional

Instructions

1
In a mixing bowl, add chana dal flour, curd, water, turmeric powder, green chili paste, ginger paste, and salt. Whisk until you get a smooth, lump-free batter.
5 minutes
Ensure batter is smooth for a fluffy dhokla.
2
Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow fermentation.
10 minutes
Resting time helps in developing flavor and light texture.
3
Grease a dhokla plate or thali with a few drops of oil. Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt and mix gently. The batter will become airy.
2 minutes
Mix Eno quickly and steam immediately for best results.
4
Pour the batter into the greased plate, filling it evenly. Place the plate in a steamer or pressure cooker (without weight) and steam for 15-20 minutes.
15-20 minutes
Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, dhokla is done.

Why This Dish is Healthy

Steamed dhokla is a naturally low-fat, high-protein dish, making it excellent for weight management and muscle recovery. Chana dal flour increases protein and fibre content, keeping you full longer and aiding digestion. The recipe uses minimal oil and supports vegetarian and vegan diets, aligning perfectly with calorie tracking and healthy eating goals.

Chana Dal Flour Dhokla is packed with plant-based protein, dietary fibre, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. The use of chana dal flour lowers the glycemic index compared to refined flours, supporting balanced blood sugar levels. Curd adds calcium and probiotics for gut health, while tempering with mustard seeds and curry leaves provides antioxidants. This dhokla is steamed, not fried, minimizing unhealthy fats and calories.