The Ingredients of Dhokla & the Benefits of Eating it

Who doesn’t know about Dhokla? You would hardly find one in India who has neither heard of nor eaten this dish at least once in their lifetime. Despite its origins in the Indian state of Gujarat, it is popular throughout India as a savoury and healthy food item.

Varanaka Samuchaya mentions this item in Gujarati script. Going by its data, the cuisine has been in existence roughly since 1520 CE. Thus, it is not a new dish, as it has been a part of the regular diet of people spanning for several centuries.

Known for its striking similarities with khaman - another popular dish on par with dhokla - dhokla is a versatile food. One can have it as breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Ingredients of dhokla

Dhokla consists of two primary ingredients - lentils and chickpea flour. Most people tend to confuse it with khaman. There are differences between both the items though. In terms of ingredients, khaman consists of a combination of rice and dal. Also, there is a difference between the recipe for dhokla and that of khaman.

Dhokla recipe

Dhokla recipe

Why is dhokla beneficial for your health?

Most people prefer to eat dhokla, as it is simple and easy to prepare and is equally good for health. It is popular among those who emphasize on eating a healthy and balanced diet involving fewer calories. If you have a similar resolution, there is no reason why you should not consider including it in your diet plan.

Planning to eat something healthy does not necessarily mean compromising your taste buds. Fortunately, there are ways to prepare dhokla dishes without compromising its taste or nutritional value. For good taste, all you need to do is steam it well.

Unlike other popular Indian dishes, dhokla recipe does not necessitate deep frying. This translates into a lower oil content in it. Fewer calories with lower oil content are the two aspects of a healthy diet, which dhokla fulfills well. This is the reason why more and more fitness-conscious people are opting for dhokla these days.

Dhokla is rich in protein and fibre too - the two requisites of a healthy body and mind. The presence of these two components makes one feel strong and energetic. Due to the fibre content in dhokla, one hardly experiences health issues linked to digestion. You need to make dhokla a part of your regular diet to reap its digestive benefits, though.

Did you know that dhokla recipe could be beneficial for diabetics as well? In comparison to other similar foods, dhokla releases glucose at a much slower rate. As a result, it is less likely to shoot up the level of glucose in the bloodstream in quick time. This makes it easier for diabetics to keep their blood sugar level under control.