Soft & Spongy Dhokla Without Soda or Citric Acid: Easy Summer Snack Recipe

If you’re craving a light, healthy, and delicious snack this summer, nothing beats a plate of cool, soft, and spongy Dhokla. This Gujarati favorite is not only tasty but also incredibly simple to make — and yes, you can achieve that perfect texture without using baking soda or citric acid. Follow this easy, foolproof recipe to enjoy jali-daar (net-like), fluffy dhokla that tastes just like the traditional one.

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 1 cup gram flour (besan), sifted

• ½ cup fresh curd (yogurt)

• ½ cup water

• 2 pinches turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• ¼ tsp baking powder (optional)

• 1 sachet Eno fruit salt (plain or lemon flavor)

For Tempering (Tadka):

• 1–2 tsp mustard oil

• ½ tsp mustard seeds

• 2 green chilies (finely chopped)

• 8–10 curry leaves

• 1 tsp sugar

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 cup water

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Sift the gram flour into a mixing bowl.

2. Mix curd and water in a separate cup to make a thin buttermilk.

3. Add turmeric and salt to the gram flour, then slowly add the buttermilk while stirring.

4. Whisk the batter in one direction for about 5 minutes to remove lumps and create a smooth, airy texture.

5. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Steam the Dhokla

1. Heat water in a steamer or a deep pan.

2. Grease a dhokla tray or any flat vessel with oil.

3. Add Eno (and baking powder if using) to the batter just before steaming. Mix gently but quickly.

4. Immediately pour the batter into the greased tray.

5. Steam for 15 minutes on medium flame.

6. Use a toothpick or knife to check if it’s cooked — it should come out clean.

Step 3: Add the Tempering

1. Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds.

2. Once they splutter, add green chilies and curry leaves.

3. Add 1 cup water, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a quick boil.

4. Pour the hot tempering over the steamed dhokla evenly.

5. Let it sit for a few minutes or refrigerate for a cooling twist.

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🌿 Serving Suggestions

• Cut into square or diamond-shaped pieces.

• Garnish with fresh coriander or grated coconut.

• Serve with green chutney or tamarind chutney for an authentic touch.

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💡 Why This Recipe Works

✅ No soda or citric acid needed – Eno and curd provide the perfect lift.
✅ Light, jali-daar, and spongy – Just like the market-style dhokla.
✅ Perfect summer snack – Easy to digest and cooling when served cold.
✅ Customizable – Add ginger-chili paste or grated veggies to make it even healthier.

This dhokla recipe is a great way to serve a healthy, home-cooked snack that your family — especially kids — will love. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought mix!