Savory Millet and Spinach Dal Dhokla

Savory Millet and Spinach Dal Dhokla is a delicious and healthy Indian snack or appetizer. It is made with a batter of millet, dal, spinach, and spices, which is then steamed and cut into squares. Dhokla is a popular Gujarati dish that is often served with a spicy green chutney.

Dhokla is a Gujarati dish that is said to have originated in the 16th century. It is believed that the dish was created by a Gujarati cook named Damaji Bhailalbhai, who was working in a temple kitchen. Damaji was experimenting with different ways to make a lentil-based dish when he accidentally added too much baking soda to the batter. To his surprise, the resulting dish was light and fluffy, and it was an instant hit with the temple priests. Word of the delicious new dish quickly spread, and soon dhokla became a popular Gujarati snack.

Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup millet
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup dal
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt to taste
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

Instructions

1. Soak the millet and dal in water for at least 4 hours.
2. Drain the millet and dal and grind them into a fine batter.
3. Add the spinach, baking soda, turmeric powder, salt, green chilies and cumin seeds to the batter and mix well.
4. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
5. Grease a dhokla mold or pan with oil.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared mold and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the dhokla from the mold and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
8. Garnish with coriander leaves and coconut chutney.

Why It Works

• The batter is made with a combination of millet and dal, which provides a good balance of protein and fiber.
• The spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals to the dish.
• The spices give the dhokla a flavorful and aromatic taste.
• The steaming method of cooking results in a light and fluffy texture.