Air Fryer Wonder: Discover How to Make Dhokla with Ease!
The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook our favorite foods, making them healthier and more convenient to prepare. One dish that can be easily made in an air fryer is Dhokla, a popular Indian snack. Dhokla is a delicious steamed snack made from fermented batter, usually made from gram flour (besan), rice flour, or a mixture of both. It is a spongy and savory cake-like dish that is enjoyed as a snack or for breakfast. In this article, we will explore how to make Dhokla using an air fryer, step by step.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make Dhokla in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 cup of gram flour (besan)
2. 1 tablespoon of semolina (sooji)
3. 1 tablespoon of yogurt
4. 1 teaspoon of ginger paste
5. 1 teaspoon of green chili paste
6. 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
7. 1 teaspoon of Eno fruit salt
8. Salt to taste
9. 1 teaspoon of oil for greasing the pan
Prepare the Batter
To begin, take a mixing bowl and add the gram flour and semolina. Mix them well. Then, add the ginger paste, green chili paste, yogurt, lemon juice, and salt. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth and lump-free batter. If the batter seems too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.
Add the Rising Agent
Now it’s time to add the rising agent, which gives Dhokla its spongy texture. In this recipe, we will be using Eno fruit salt as the rising agent. Add the Eno fruit salt to the batter and mix it gently. You will notice that the batter starts to froth and become lighter. This frothing action is important for making Dhokla fluffy and soft.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Once the batter is ready, it’s time to preheat the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (180°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, grease a cake pan or plate that fits inside the air fryer with some oil.
Steam the Dhokla
Now, pour the batter into the greased cake pan, ensuring that it is spread evenly. Place the pan inside the preheated air fryer and cook for about 12-15 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the type and size of your air fryer. To check if the Dhokla is cooked, insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean, the Dhokla is ready.
Give It a Tempering
While the Dhokla is cooking, let’s prepare a simple tempering to enhance its flavor. In a small pan, heat some oil and add mustard seeds. Once the mustard seeds start to splutter, add curry leaves and green chilies. Cook for a few seconds and then turn off the heat. This tempering adds a burst of flavor to the Dhokla.
Unmold and Add Tempering
Once the Dhokla is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a knife to loosen the edges, then gently flip it onto a serving plate. Pour the prepared tempering over the Dhokla and spread it evenly. The tempering seeps into the Dhokla, adding a delightful aroma and taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Your delicious Dhokla is now ready to be served. Cut it into square or diamond-shaped pieces and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Dhokla can be enjoyed as is or served with green chutney or tamarind chutney. It makes for a great evening snack or a light and healthy breakfast option.
Cleaning the Air Fryer
After preparing the Dhokla, it is important to clean the air fryer to maintain its performance and longevity. Ensure that the air fryer is completely cool before cleaning. Remove the cooking tray and wash it with warm soapy water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe the inner walls of the air fryer. Make sure to clean any food residues or oil that may have accumulated. The outer surface can be wiped with a damp cloth. Allow all the parts to dry completely before reassembling the air fryer.
In conclusion, making Dhokla in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this popular Indian snack. The air fryer cooks the Dhokla evenly and gives it a fluffy texture without compromising on taste. So why not give it a try and savor the flavors of Dhokla in a healthier way!