Dhokla
Navratri is a time for fasting, devotion, and celebration. During these nine days, many people follow a strict diet to honor the divine, which excludes grains, non-vegetarian foods, and alcohol. Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is one of the most popular ingredients consumed during this time due to its light yet filling nature. One of the most loved dishes made with sabudana is Sabudana Dhokla. A steamed savory snack that is perfect for breaking the fast. It’s not only easy to prepare but also delicious, healthy, and packed with energy to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients for Sabudana Dhokla:
- Sabudana (Tapioca pearls) – 1 cup
- Yogurt (Curd) – 1/2 cup
- Green chilies – 2, finely chopped
- Coriander leaves – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Ginger – 1-inch piece, grated
- Roasted cumin powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Water – as required for soaking
- Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon (for fluffiness)
- Oil – for greasing
- Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Curry leaves – 6-8 leaves
- Grated coconut – 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Sabudana:
Start by rinsing the sabudana thoroughly to remove excess starch. Then, soak the sabudana in water for about 4-6 hours or overnight. The tapioca pearls should absorb the water and become soft. After soaking, drain any excess water completely.
2. Prepare the Dhokla Mixture:
Once the sabudana is ready, transfer it into a large mixing bowl. Add yogurt, finely chopped green chilies, grated ginger, coriander leaves, salt, sugar, and roasted cumin powder to the soaked sabudana. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure that the ingredients are well incorporated. The yogurt will help bind the ingredients together and give the dhokla a soft texture.
3. Add Baking Soda:
Just before steaming the dhokla, add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the mixture. This will help the dhokla rise and become fluffy. Gently mix the batter to evenly distribute the baking soda without over-mixing.
4. Prepare the Steaming Setup:
Grease a dhokla or idli mold with a little oil to prevent the batter from sticking. Alternatively, you can use a round cake tin or a simple steel plate. Fill the base of a steamer or a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the greased mold inside the steamer, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the batter.
5. Steam the Dhokla:
Pour the sabudana mixture into the prepared mold, smoothing the top with a spoon. Cover the steamer and steam the dhokla for about 15-20 minutes on medium heat. You can check if the dhokla is cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the dhokla is ready.
6. Temper the Dhokla:
In a small pan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add curry leaves and fry them until they turn crisp. Pour this tempering over the steamed dhokla for an added crunch and flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Let the dhokla cool down slightly before cutting it into squares or diamond shapes. Garnish with freshly grated coconut (optional) and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve the Sabudana Dhokla warm with a tangy chutney or yogurt on the side.
Why Sabudana Dhokla is Perfect for Navratri:
Sabudana Dhokla is a light and nutritious option for those observing fasts during Navratri. Unlike traditional deep-fried snacks, this steamed dish is not only healthy but also offers a good balance of carbohydrates and protein. Sabudana is easy to digest, making it a great option for those who may have limited food intake during the fasting period. Additionally, the dhokla’s mild yet flavorful taste can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it an ideal snack to serve at family gatherings and festive occasions.
Tips for Best Results:
- Consistent Soaking: Ensure that the sabudana is soaked well to achieve the perfect soft texture. If the pearls remain hard after soaking, let them sit for a little longer and add a few drops of water.
- Adjust Spices: If you prefer a spicier dhokla, you can increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder.
- Keep it Moist: The batter should not be too dry or too wet. It should have a consistency that holds together but is not runny.
With its soft texture and wonderful flavors, Sabudana Dhokla is a perfect Navratri special dish that is light, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Whether for breaking your fast or serving as a snack, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
