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Dal Dhokli is a traditional Gujarati dish that combines the goodness of lentils (dal) and wheat flour dumplings (dhokli) in a delightful and comforting way. It is a complete meal in itself, packed with flavors and nutritional value.
To prepare Dal Dhokli, lentils are cooked to perfection with spices like turmeric, cumin, and red chili powder. The dal is then infused with the aromatic tempering of cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves, which enhances its taste.
Meanwhile, the wheat flour dumplings are prepared by kneading the dough with turmeric and red chili powder. The dough is rolled out and cut into small diamond-shaped or square-shaped pieces, which are then added to the boiling dal.
The dumplings absorb the flavors of the dal and become soft and tender. This unique combination of lentils and dumplings creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Dal Dhokli is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it provides a good balance of protein from the lentils and carbohydrates from the dumplings. It is often enjoyed with a dollop of ghee (clarified butter) and garnished with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness.
This hearty and soul-satisfying dish is not just a delight for the taste buds but also a comforting treat for the senses. Whether served as a main course or enjoyed as a light meal, Dal Dhokli is a beloved dish that brings people together and leaves them craving for more.
Dal Dhokli is a delicious and comforting Gujarati dish that combines lentils and wheat flour dumplings in a spiced broth. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Dal Dhokli:
Ingredients Of Dal Dhokli:
To make Dal Dhokli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the dal:
- 1 cup pigeon peas (toor dal)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 cups water
For the dhokli:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
For tempering:
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves
- 2 dried red chilies
Step By Step Instructions Of Dal Dhokli Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Dal
- Rinse the toor dal (pigeon peas) thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water.
- In a pressure cooker, heat oil on medium heat and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.
- Add onions, garlic, ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
- Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
- Add the soaked dal and water to the pressure cooker. Close the lid and cook for about 4-5 whistles or until the dal is cooked and soft.
- Once the pressure releases, open the cooker and whisk the dal until it becomes smooth and creamy. Keep it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dhokli
- In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, carom seeds, and salt.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a firm dough.
- Divide the dough into small lemon-sized balls. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
- Cut the rolled dough into diamond or square-shaped pieces. Keep them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Dal Dhokli
- Bring the prepared dal to a boil. If the consistency is too thick, add some water to adjust it.
- Carefully drop the prepared dhokli pieces into the boiling dal one by one.
- Stir gently to avoid sticking and cook the dhokli for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked through. The dhokli will float to the top when cooked.
- Once the dhokli is cooked, turn off the heat and cover the pan.
Step 4 Prepare the Tempering
- In a small pan, heat ghee on medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
- Pour this tempering over the cooked dal dhokli and mix well.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the Dal Dhokli into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of pickle or yogurt.
Enjoy the delicious and comforting Dal Dhokli!
Note: The cooking time and quantities mentioned in the steps may vary depending on your preferences and the number of servings. Adjust them accordingly.