While the dialogue from the movie "3 Idiots" stated that the sound of Gujarati foods such as fafda, thepla, dhokla, and handva sounds dangerous, the flavour and delicious taste of each of these dishes would leave you wanting more. Take dhokla, for instance. The soft and spongy square-shaped bites made with gramme flour and tempered with mustard seeds are a popular breakfast dish in Gujarati households. Often paired with spicy green chillies and mint chutney, dhoklas are loved by one and all. However, you don’t need to stick to the standard dhokla because there are so many different ways in which you can make them.
From cabbage to peas, here are some yummy dhokla varieties to try at home for breakfast.
1. Lauki Dhokla
Also known as bottle gourd dhokla, this lauki ka dhokla is a healthy treat in the morning. Grated lauki or bottle gourd is added to the gram flour and mixed with ginger-garlic paste and other spices to lend the dish a delicious flavour. Once the dhoklas are steamed, they are garnished with mustard and sesame seeds.
2. Beetroot Dhokla
This pink-coloured dhokla is a pretty treat to look at and even more delicious to taste. Made with beetroot and rava or semolina, the pinkish hue is definitely the highlight of the dish. Curd is also added to the dhokla batter, and it is tempered with mustard and sesame seeds in hot oil and served with a garnish of grated coconut and finely chopped coriander alongside tempered green chillies.
3. Makki Dhokla
Made with makki ka atta, or maize flour, this dhokla is bright yellow in colour and has an earthy taste. Instead of gram flour, maize flour is used to make this sweet and spongy delight. The maize dhokla is nutritious and delicious, especially when paired with buttermilk for a tangy flavour in the winter.
4. Cabbage Dhokla
If you don’t like the taste of veggies alone, why not add them to your dhoklas? The cabbage is finely grated and mixed with besan, also known as gram flour. The batter is prepared, and the dhokla is given shape. This is steamed well and then served warm.
5. Matar Dhokla
Another greenish dhokla that is fluffy, sweet, and soft is this matar variety. This is a super healthy type of dhokla, made with fresh green peas that are mashed and added to the batter consisting of sooji, curd, and ginger-garlic paste. This one is a must-try.
