Instant Sooji Oats Dhokla Recipe – Steamed Semolina & Oats Dhokla
If you’re looking to enjoy a healthy and flavorful snack that is light on the stomach yet filling, look no further than this Instant Sooji Oats Dhokla. A fusion of traditional Gujarati dhokla with a twist, this recipe incorporates the wholesome goodness of semolina (sooji) and instant oats to create a soft, spongy, and nutritious dish. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but in its convenience—perfect for busy mornings or as a savory tea-time treat.
Dhokla is typically a savory steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, but with this variation, the recipe is lightened up with oats and semolina, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. The spicy seasoning and a coconut-coriander garnish elevate the taste, making it a delightful snack or a light breakfast option.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Gujarati
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sooji (Semolina / Rava) – roasted | 1 cup |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1/2 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/2 cup |
| Enos fruit salt | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chilli Powder | For sprinkling |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tbsp + extra for greasing |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Sesame Seeds (Til seeds) | 1 tsp |
| SSP Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Green Chillies (slit) | 2 |
| Curry Leaves | 5 |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | As needed (for garnish) |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | A few (for garnish) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Batter:
Begin by adding roasted sooji and instant oats to a mixing bowl. Next, add curd (yogurt) and salt to taste. Gradually add water, a little at a time, to mix everything together and form a thick batter. Stir the batter well to ensure there are no lumps. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes. -
Add Enos Fruit Salt:
After the batter has rested, add Enos fruit salt to the mixture. Stir the batter gently to combine it well with the salt. The addition of Enos will help the dhokla become light and fluffy when steamed. -
Prepare the Steamer:
While the batter is resting, prepare your steamer by adding water to the base. Preheat the steamer over medium heat. Grease your dhokla plates or a round cake tin with a little sunflower oil to prevent sticking. -
Steam the Dhokla:
Pour the prepared batter into the greased dhokla plates. Sprinkle a little red chilli powder on top of the batter for a dash of color and extra flavor. Carefully place the dhokla plates into the steamer. Cover the steamer with a lid and steam the dhokla for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until a tester (like a butter knife) inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Rest the Dhokla:
Once the dhokla is done, turn off the heat. Remove the dhokla stand from the steamer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the dhokla to set and firm up. -
Prepare the Tempering:
While the dhokla is resting, heat sunflower oil in a small pan. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and sesame seeds. Allow them to crackle for a few seconds. Next, add asafoetida (hing), slit green chillies, and curry leaves. Stir for a few more seconds, allowing the flavors to infuse into the oil. Turn off the heat once the tempering is ready. -
Serve the Dhokla:
After the dhokla has rested, cut it into squares or diamonds, depending on your preference. Arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Pour the prepared tempering over the dhokla and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut. Serve the Instant Sooji Oats Dhokla hot with a side of green chutney or enjoy it with a cup of masala chai.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Tips for Perfect Dhokla:
- Resting Time: Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes before adding the Enos salt. This step helps to ensure that the dhokla rises and becomes fluffy when steamed.
- Greasing the Plates: Be sure to grease the dhokla plates or tin well, as this will help prevent the dhokla from sticking and ensure easy removal once it’s steamed.
- Water Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. The consistency should resemble a pancake batter.
Why You’ll Love Instant Sooji Oats Dhokla:
This Instant Sooji Oats Dhokla is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a nutritious, quick-to-make snack. The combination of semolina and oats not only makes it light but also provides fiber and complex carbs, making it a great choice for a filling breakfast or mid-day snack. The tempering adds a lovely depth of flavor, and the coconut and coriander garnish gives it a fresh, aromatic finish.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be whipped up in under an hour—perfect for busy weekdays or casual get-togethers. This Gujarati classic, with its twist, is sure to be a hit at any table!
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Sooji Oats Dhokla with a spicy green chutney or enjoy it with a hot cup of masala chai for a delightful, comforting meal. It’s perfect for tea time or as a quick breakfast that will keep you energized throughout the day.
