Suji Besan Dhokla: A Fluffy, Healthy Twist to Your Tea-Time Snack
In the world of Gujarati snacks, dhokla and khaman often get mixed up. So, why not combine the best of both? Enter the Suji Besan Dhokla—a soft, fluffy, lightly spiced steamed cake made from semolina (suji) and gram flour (besan). This easy-to-make hybrid version brings together the texture of rava dhokla and the flavor of khaman, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast or tea-time platter.
With just a few basic pantry ingredients, a steamer, and 15–20 minutes of your time, you can whip up a nutritious and delicious snack that feels indulgent, but is surprisingly healthy.
Why Suji Besan Dhokla Is Good for You ?
Let’s break down what makes this dish so special and healthy:
1. Suji (Semolina):
Suji is light on the stomach and a good source of iron and complex carbohydrates. It provides sustained energy and is easy to digest, making it ideal for both kids and adults.
2. Besan (Gram Flour):
Rich in protein and fibre, besan adds density and a nutty taste to the dhokla. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps you fuller for longer.
3. Curd (Khatta Dahi):
Fermented curd adds a mild tang and aids in the fermentation process, giving the dhokla its characteristic spongy texture. It also supports gut health and digestion.
4. Ginger and Green Chillies:
Ginger helps with digestion and reduces inflammation, while green chillies add a mild heat and help boost metabolism.
5. Eno (Fruit Salt):
This leavening agent creates the bubbles that make dhokla airy and soft. It works instantly when added, so your batter rises beautifully right before steaming.
6. Tadka with Rai, Til, and Curry Leaves:
The tempering adds crunch and aroma. Mustard seeds improve digestion, sesame seeds add healthy fats and calcium, and curry leaves offer antioxidants.
Step-by-Step Suji Besan Dhokla Recipe
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup suji and 2 tablespoons besan. Add ½ cup sour curd and gradually mix in about ½ cup water. Stir until smooth and let it rest for up to 1 hour.
- Add Flavours: Once rested, add crushed ginger, chopped green chillies, coriander leaves, turmeric, and salt. Mix well. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Preheat Steamer: Keep your steamer ready with water boiling and a stand inside. Grease the dhokla plate.
- Activate the Batter: Add ½ tsp Eno just before steaming and mix quickly. Pour the batter onto the greased plate. Sprinkle some red chilli powder or black pepper over it.
- Steam: Place the plate in the steamer, cover with a cloth-wrapped lid to prevent condensation from dripping. Steam on medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes.
- Prepare Tadka: Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds (rai), sesame seeds (til), a pinch of asafoetida, and curry leaves. Once they splutter, pour the tadka over the cooked dhokla.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve hot with green chutney, ketchup, or even peanut oil.
Conclusion
Suji Besan Dhokla is steamed and not fried, making it a healthier alternative to samosas or pakoras. It’s quick to prepare, especially if you have surprise guests. It’s also great for lunchboxes and can be eaten cold or warm. The balance of carbs and protein makes it ideal for people looking for light but filling meals. It’s also versatile—feel free to add grated carrots, beetroot, or even spinach to the batter to make it more nutritious. Whether you call it suji khaman, besan dhokla, or just fluffy goodness on a plate, this dish will quickly become a family favourite.
