Welcome back to our blog! Today, we’re bringing you a unique and healthy recipe from Bihar – Bajra Dhokla. This steamed delicacy made from bajra (pearl millet) is not only tasty but also packed with nutrition. Let’s get into the details of making this delightful dish.

Ingredients

To make Bihari-style Bajra Dhokla, you will need:

• 1 cup Bajra (pearl millet) flour
• 1/2 cup Rice flour
• 1/2 cup Yogurt (curd)
• 1 tsp Eno fruit salt
• 1 tsp Mustard seeds
• 1 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1 Green chili, finely chopped
• 1 inch Ginger, grated
• A pinch of Asafoetida (hing)
• Salt to taste
• Water (as required to make the batter)
• 2 tbsp Oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bajra flour, rice flour, yogurt, salt, grated ginger, and chopped green chili.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously to form a smooth batter of pouring consistency.
3. Let the batter rest for about 20-30 minutes.

Step 2: Steaming the Dhokla

1. Prepare a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix gently. You will notice the batter becoming frothy.
3. Grease a dhokla plate or a shallow dish with oil and pour the batter into it, spreading it evenly.
4. Place the dish in the steamer and cover it with a lid. Steam for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Tempering and Serving

1. In a small pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add cumin seeds and asafoetida, sautéing for a few seconds.
3. Pour this tempering over the steamed dhokla.
4. Cut the dhokla into squares or diamonds and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
5. Serve warm with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Tips and Variations

• Consistency: Ensure the batter is smooth and of pouring consistency for soft and fluffy dhoklas.
• Flavors: You can add finely chopped coriander leaves or grated coconut to the batter for extra flavor.
• Steaming: Avoid opening the steamer lid frequently as it can affect the steaming process.

Nutritional Benefits

Bajra is high in fiber, magnesium, and essential amino acids, making this dhokla a nutritious snack. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional snacks.

Enjoy making and savoring this Bihari-style Bajra Dhokla with your family and friends. Happy cooking!