There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a snack that’s both delicious and nutritious, especially when it comes together in under 30 minutes. Enter Sprouts Dhokla—a vibrant dish that not only adds a pop of color to your table but also provides a hearty dose of moong sprouts and spinach. This dish transforms humble ingredients into a spongy delight that’s as perfect for a cozy evening at home as it is for festive celebrations like Diwali.
I first tried this dish during a friend’s gathering, where I was impressed by its fluffy texture and the medley of flavors. It’s amazing to think that such a delightful treat requires no fermentation and can be whipped up quickly, making it ideal for busy lives. With simple substitutions available, this Sprouts Dhokla embraces versatility and can easily cater to your dietary preferences, all while being gluten-free and vegetarian. Let’s dive into this recipe and rediscover healthy snacking!
Why is Sprouts Dhokla a Must-Try?
Wholesome Nutrition: Packed with moong sprouts and palak, this dish is a powerhouse of vitamins and protein, making it a guilt-free snack or appetizer.
Quick and Easy: Done in under 30 minutes, this simple recipe is perfect for those on the go and is a fantastic option for unexpected guests.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitutions like chickpea flour ensure this dish remains gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
Celebration Ready: It’s not just a snack; this colorful dish is perfect for festivals or gatherings, effortlessly impressing your guests.
Versatile Preparation: You can customize with various ingredients like spices or additional vegetables. Check out more ideas on how to elevate your Sprouts Dhokla with our variation suggestions.
Deliciously Spongy: With a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, each bite is a delightful experience you won’t forget!
Sprouts Dhokla Ingredients
For the Batter
- Moong Sprouts – Provides protein and a healthy base; use fresh, well-soaked sprouts for best results.
- Palak (Spinach) – Adds color and nutrients; can be substituted with other leafy greens like kale or mustard greens.
- Gram Flour (Besan) – Acts as a binding agent and gives structure; chickpea flour is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Curds (Yogurt) – Adds moisture and tanginess; Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker consistency.
- Green Chilli – Introduces heat; adjust quantity based on your spice preference.
- Ginger – Enhances flavor; fresh ginger is best, but powdered ginger is a handy substitute.
- Cooking Oil – Used for greasing and tempering; any neutral oil works well.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning; always adjust according to taste.
- Eno (Fruit Salt) – Creates lightness and sponginess in the dhokla; if unavailable, use baking soda (½ tsp) with lemon juice (½ tsp).
For the Tempering
- Mustard Seeds – Adds flavor and crunch during tempering.
- White Sesame Seeds – Provides nuttiness; optional but recommended for a delightful texture.
- Hing (Asafoetida) – Enhances flavor and aids digestion; you can omit if necessary.
- Curry Leaves – Contributes aromatic flavor, commonly used in Indian cooking.
- Sugar – Balances out flavors; feel free to omit or reduce according to dietary preference.
- Lemon Juice – Increases tanginess; fresh juice is always preferable.
For Garnish
- Chopped Coriander – Adds freshness and enhances presentation.
- Grated Coconut – Complements the texture and flavor; a great finishing touch!
How to Make Sprouts Dhokla
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Prepare the Batter: Blend the moong sprouts, palak, gram flour, curds, green chili, ginger, oil, salt, and water together until you achieve a smooth, cake batter consistency. Add a bit more water if it’s too thick.
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Prepare the Steamer: Bring water to a boil in your steamer while you grease the steaming plate. This ensures a non-stick surface for your dhokla.
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Add Eno: Just before steaming, gently fold Eno into the batter. Mix lightly until it becomes frothy, which helps the dhokla rise beautifully.
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Steam Dhoklas: Quickly pour the prepared batter into the greased plate and steam for 15 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when done.
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Make Tempering: In a pan, heat some oil and add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, hing, curry leaves, salt, sugar, and a splash of water. Briefly cook, then stir in lemon juice for that extra zing.
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Unmold and Serve: Once cooled, cut the dhokla into squares. Drizzle the tempering over the pieces, and garnish with grated coconut and fresh coriander to make it pop!
Optional: Serve warm with tomato ketchup or coriander chutney for an irresistible dip.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sprouts Dhokla Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine while adapting this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Swap curds with almond or coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or dill into the batter for an aromatic twist that brightens up each bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts such as cashews or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor in every mouthful.
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Vegetable Medley: Mix in grated carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the veggie quotient and add a delightful crunch.
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Heat Level: Adjust the number of green chilies or consider adding a pinch of red chili powder for those who crave extra heat. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also ignite flavor.
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Spice it Up: Enhance flavor by introducing spices like cumin or turmeric for an earthy, comforting undertone that complements the freshness of the sprouts.
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Sweetness Twist: For a touch of sweetness, incorporate a small amount of grated coconut into the batter or sprinkle some on top.
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Chickpea Flour: Use chickpea flour instead of gram flour for an even nuttier flavor and to maintain that gluten-free promise. This brings in additional protein and fiber as well.
Storage Tips for Sprouts Dhokla
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly made Sprouts Dhokla within 2 hours of cooking to savor its spongy texture; otherwise, refrigerate.
Fridge: Store leftover dhokla in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for 5 minutes to revive its fluffy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pieces of dhokla in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and steam before serving.
Reheating: Always reheat by steaming to maintain optimal moisture and lightness, allowing you to enjoy its original flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for Sprouts Dhokla
- Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is smooth and pourable for fluffy Sprouts Dhokla. If too thick, gradually add water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Act Fast with Eno: Add Eno right before you steam the batter to maintain its sponginess. Mix gently to incorporate the air, ensuring a light texture.
- Check Your Steamer: Make sure your steamer is ready and boiling before pouring in the batter. This ensures even cooking without compromising the fluffiness.
- Don’t Skip Tempering: The tempering is essential for flavor. Skipping it will lead to a less flavorful dish. Ensure you combine all ingredients well for the best taste.
- Storage Smoothie: If making ahead, store cooked dhokla in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat by steaming for a few minutes to maintain freshness.
What to Serve with Sprouts Dhokla?
Sprouts Dhokla is a delightful dish perfect for any gathering, allowing your taste buds to dance with vibrant flavors and textures.
- Coriander Chutney: This refreshing dip adds a zesty kick, complementing the mild flavors of dhokla with its herbaceous brightness.
- Tomato Ketchup: A classic pairing that provides a sweet and tangy contrast, elevating the taste of the spongy dhokla with every bite.
- Spicy Pickle: A punch of heat from spicy pickles can provide a delightful contrast, enhancing the flavor while adding excitement to your plate.
- Paneer Tikka: The rich and smoky flavors of grilled paneer pairs beautifully with the lightness of dhokla, making for a hearty meal combo.
- Masala Chai: A fragrant cup of masala chai can warm your soul while perfectly balancing the savory notes of the dhokla for a cozy snack experience.
- Vegetable Salad: A crunchy salad with fresh ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon complements the soft texture, adding a refreshing element to your mealtime.
- Sweet Lassi: A sweet and creamy lassi brings a cooling effect that contrasts beautifully with the savory dhokla, making for a pleasant harmony of flavors.
- Dessert: Consider serving a light dessert like Kheer to end the meal on a sweet note, balancing the savory snacks with a touch of sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Sprouts Dhokla ahead of time makes meal planning a breeze! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember not to add Eno until you’re ready to steam, as it provides the necessary lightness. You can also steam the dhokla and let them cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat by steaming them for an additional 5 minutes to restore their fluffy texture. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavor of Sprouts Dhokla with minimal effort, keeping your busy weeknights stress-free and delicious!
Sprouts Dhokla Recipe FAQs
What kind of moong sprouts should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh and well-soaked moong sprouts. They should be plump and have a vibrant green color. Avoid sprouts with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these may be spoiled.
How do I store leftover Sprouts Dhokla?
You can store leftover dhokla in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it fresh, steam it for about 5 minutes before serving. This method helps maintain its delightful fluffiness!
Can I freeze Sprouts Dhokla?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cut the cooled dhokla into pieces and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then re-steam for 5-7 minutes to rejuvenate their texture.
What should I do if my dhokla turns out dense?
If your dhokla is dense, it’s likely that the batter was either too thick or that the Eno wasn’t activated properly. Make sure to get a smooth batter consistency and mix in the Eno right before steaming to help it rise. If it still doesn’t seem spongy, check your steaming technique—ensure the water is boiling before adding the batter.
Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
Very! This Sprouts Dhokla is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a great option for many diets. However, if you have specific allergies, be cautious with the ingredients: ensure that the gram flour is free from any cross-contamination with gluten and check for any allergies to the spices or vegetables used.
How can I add more flavor to the Sprouts Dhokla?
Feel free to experiment! You can add spices like turmeric or cumin to the batter for an extra flavor punch. Additionally, incorporating grated carrots, bell peppers, or even adding some finely chopped herbs can make your Sprouts Dhokla unique and delicious!
Fluffy Sprouts Dhokla: Healthy Snack for Every Celebration
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the moong sprouts, palak, gram flour, curds, green chili, ginger, oil, salt, and water together until smooth.
- Bring water to a boil in your steamer while you grease the steaming plate.
- Just before steaming, gently fold Eno into the batter and mix lightly until frothy.
- Quickly pour the prepared batter into the greased plate and steam for 15 minutes.
- In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, sesame seeds, hing, curry leaves, salt, sugar, and a splash of water.
- Once cooled, cut the dhokla into squares. Drizzle the tempering over pieces and garnish with grated coconut and fresh coriander.