Rava Dhokla, also known as Sooji Dhokla, is a soft, fluffy steamed snack from Gujarat, India, made with semolina (rava) instead of the traditional gram flour. This instant version of dhokla is quick to prepare, requiring no fermentation, and offers a delightful tangy-spicy flavor with a light, porous texture. Perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or a healthy snack, this detailed Rava Dhokla recipe will guide you to whip up this Gujarati favorite at home. Let’s steam some instant deliciousness!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
(Includes batter preparation and resting)
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
(Steaming the dhokla)
Total Time
- 35 minutes
(A fast and fluffy treat!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe serves approximately 4-5 people (about 10-12 pieces). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 110g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 10g (from yogurt and tempering sugar)
- Sodium: 1700mg (varies based on salt and baking soda)
- Cholesterol: 5mg (minimal, from yogurt)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 10% of Daily Value (DV) (from lemon and chilies)
- Iron: 15% of DV
- Calcium: 10% of DV
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Rava Dhokla Batter:
- 1 cup rava (semolina/sooji) – fine variety preferred
- 1/2 cup yogurt (curd) – sour for better flavor
- 3/4 cup water – adjust for a thick, pourable batter
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste – or grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon green chili paste – or 1-2 finely chopped chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for a vibrant color
- 1 teaspoon sugar – for balance
- 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – for tanginess
- 1 teaspoon ENO fruit salt – or 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, for fluffiness
- 1 tablespoon oil – for batter and greasing
For the Tempering (Tadka):
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – optional, for crunch
- 8-10 curry leaves – fresh or dried
- 2-3 green chilies – slit lengthwise
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar – for a sweet-spicy touch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – for extra zing
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves – chopped for garnish
Equipment Needed:
- Steamer or large pot with lid
- Round steaming tray or cake tin (greased)
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Small pan for tempering
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup rava, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 teaspoon ginger paste, 1 teaspoon green chili paste, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
- Gradually add 3/4 cup water, stirring well to form a smooth, thick batter (similar to idli batter). Ensure no lumps remain.
- Add 1 tablespoon oil and mix thoroughly. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the rava to absorb the moisture and soften.
Step 2: Set Up the Steamer
- Fill a steamer or large pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Grease a round steaming tray or cake tin with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Steam the Dhokla
- After resting, check the batter consistency – it should be thick yet pourable. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.
- Add 1 teaspoon ENO fruit salt to the batter, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons water over it, and stir gently in one direction until the batter turns frothy and light.
- Pour the batter into the greased tray, spreading it evenly (about 1-1.5 inches thick).
- Place the tray in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for 15-20 minutes on medium heat. Test with a toothpick – it should come out clean.
- Remove from the steamer, let it cool slightly, and cut into squares or diamonds.
Step 4: Prepare the Tempering
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (if using), 8-10 curry leaves, and 2-3 slit green chilies. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Carefully add 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Pour the warm tempering evenly over the cut dhokla pieces, allowing it to soak in for enhanced flavor.
- Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with green chutney or a cup of tea for a light, satisfying snack!
Benefits of Rava Dhokla
Rava Dhokla is a delicious snack with some wholesome advantages! Here’s why it’s a great pick:
- Quick Energy: Semolina provides easily digestible carbs for an instant boost.
- Protein Bonus: Yogurt adds a touch of protein and probiotics for gut health.
- Low in Fat: Steamed preparation keeps it light and healthy.
- Fiber Content: Rava contributes dietary fiber for digestion.
- No Fermentation Needed: An instant recipe that’s beginner-friendly.
- Flavorful Nutrition: Spices and tempering bring antioxidants and taste!
