[FULL GUIDE] How To Make Dhokla In Instant Pot

Dhokla is a popular Indian snack hailing from the state of Gujarat. It is a savory steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, known for its light and spongy texture. Traditionally, the process of making dhokla involved fermenting the batter overnight and then steaming it. However, with the introduction of instant pot, making dhokla has become quicker and more convenient. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making dhokla in an instant pot, from selecting the ingredients to troubleshooting common issues.

Quick Answer: How Long To Make Dhokla In Instant Pot

The total time required to make dhokla in an instant pot is approximately 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Selection

To make dhokla in an instant pot, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Gram Flour (Besan): This is the primary ingredient for making the batter.
2. Semolina (Sooji/Rava): Adding semolina to the batter gives the dhokla its characteristic texture.
3. Yogurt: Use fresh, unflavored yogurt to aid in fermentation and enhance the flavor.
4. Turmeric Powder: Gives the dhokla its vibrant yellow color.
5. Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the dhokla rise and become fluffy.
6. Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor to the dhokla and also aids in fermentation.
7. Salt: To balance the flavors.
8. Mustard Seeds, Curry Leaves, Green Chilies: For tempering the dhokla after it’s cooked.
9. Fresh Coriander Leaves: For garnishing.

Preparation

1. Prepare The Dhokla Batter

To prepare the dhokla batter, follow these steps:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of gram flour (besan), 1/2 cup of semolina, 1/2 cup of yogurt, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
• Gradually add water while whisking to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The batter should be thick yet pourable.
• Set the batter aside in a warm place to ferment for 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can use 1 teaspoon of Eno fruit salt to hasten the fermentation process.

2. Prepare The Instant Pot

• Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the inner pot of the instant pot.
• Place the trivet that came with the instant pot inside the pot. This will elevate the dhokla plate or container above the water.

3. Prepare The Dhokla Container

• Take a stainless steel or heatproof glass dish that fits inside the instant pot.
• Grease the dish with oil to prevent the dhokla from sticking.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Dhokla

The cooking time for making dhokla in the instant pot is approximately 15-20 minutes.

How To Make Dhokla In Instant Pot

1. Pour The Batter

• Once the batter is fermented, give it a gentle stir.
• Pour the batter into the greased dish, filling it only up to 2/3 of its depth. This allows space for the dhokla to rise during steaming.

2. Steam The Dhokla

• Place the prepared dhokla dish onto the trivet inside the instant pot.
• Close the lid of the instant pot, ensuring the vent is in the sealing position.
• Select the "Steam" mode and set the timer to 15 minutes at high pressure.

3. Natural Pressure Release

• Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the instant pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes.

4. Open The Instant Pot

• Carefully turn the vent to release any remaining pressure, and open the instant pot.

5. Check Doneness

• To ensure the dhokla is cooked, insert a toothpick or a knife into the center. It should come out clean, indicating that the dhokla is ready.

6. Prepare The Tempering

• In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, a few curry leaves, and 2-3 chopped green chilies. Allow the mustard seeds to splutter.

7. Garnish And Serve

• Carefully pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Dhokla Not Fluffy

If your dhokla turns out dense instead of fluffy, it could be due to inadequate fermentation. Ensure that the batter is allowed to ferment for the recommended time or use Eno fruit salt to aid fermentation.

2. Dhokla Sticking To The Plate

To prevent the dhokla from sticking to the plate, ensure that the dish is properly greased with oil before pouring the batter.

3. Undercooked Dhokla

If the dhokla appears undercooked, put it back in the instant pot for an additional 5 minutes of steaming.

4. Overcooked Dhokla

If you find the edges of the dhokla are too dry, reduce the steaming time by a few minutes in the next attempt.

Making dhokla in an instant pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this delectable snack. With the right ingredients, preparation, and instant pot settings, you can achieve a perfectly spongy and flavorful dhokla in a relatively short span of time. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide and employing the troubleshooting tips, you can master the art of making dhokla in an instant pot and delight your family and friends with this traditional Indian delicacy.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Dhokla is a popular vegetarian dish that originated from the Gujarat region of India. It is a savory steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour. Traditionally, making dhokla required a long fermentation process and steaming it in a special pot called a dhokla steamer. However, with the emergence of the Instant Pot, making dhokla has become faster and more convenient.

The Instant Pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can also be used for steaming, sautéing, and slow cooking. It has gained immense popularity because it drastically reduces cooking time without compromising on the flavor and texture of the food.

One of the challenges of making dhokla is achieving the right texture – light, spongy, and airy. The Instant Pot can help you achieve this by providing a controlled and even heat distribution throughout the cooking process. Here’s how you can achieve the perfect texture when making dhokla in an Instant Pot:

1. Fermentation: The key to achieving a light and fluffy texture in dhokla is the fermentation process. Before preparing the dhokla batter, it is essential to let it ferment for a few hours or overnight. To aid the fermentation process, mix the batter well and ensure it is covered with a clean cloth or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm place, such as the Instant Pot in its yogurt-making mode, for better heat retention. The optimal temperature for fermentation is around 100°F (38°C).

2. Steam Release: Once the batter has fermented, transfer it to a greased container that fits inside the Instant Pot. The container should have some space for the dhokla to rise during steaming. To prevent condensation from dripping onto the dhokla, cover the container with a piece of aluminum foil before sealing the Instant Pot lid. This will also help in achieving a soft texture.

3. Cooking Time: The cooking time for dhokla in the Instant Pot is relatively quick, typically around 15-20 minutes on high pressure. To ensure even cooking, place a trivet inside the Instant Pot and add some water before placing the container of dhokla batter on top. The trivet will elevate the container, allowing steam to circulate evenly.

Flavor Infusion

While the Instant Pot ensures a perfect texture, it is also an excellent tool for infusing flavors into dhokla. Here are a few ways you can enhance the taste of your dhokla:

1. Tempering: Dhokla is traditionally tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. To impart these flavors in an Instant Pot, use the sauté function and add the tempering ingredients once the dhokla is cooked. Sauté them for a minute or two until the mustard seeds crackle and release their aroma.

2. Herbs and Spices: To add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of your dhokla, experiment with various herbs and spices. For example, you can add finely chopped cilantro, grated ginger, or minced garlic to the batter before fermentation. Additionally, you can sprinkle some chaat masala or black salt on the dhokla after steaming for a tangy and savory kick.

3. Coconut and Sesame: Another way to enhance the flavor of the dhokla is by adding shredded coconut or roasted sesame seeds. These ingredients can be mixed into the batter before steaming or sprinkled on top after the dhokla is cooked. They will add a subtle nutty flavor and a hint of sweetness.

Aroma

The aroma of dhokla is an integral part of the experience. The Instant Pot aids in preserving and intensifying the aromatic notes of the dish. Here’s how you can ensure a delightful aroma in your dhokla:

1. Seasoning: The tempering process mentioned earlier not only enhances the flavor but also releases aromatic compounds. The mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies infuse the dhokla with a fragrant aroma that is irresistible. The sauté function of the Instant Pot effectively captures and enhances these aromas.

2. Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh and aromatic ingredients, such as cilantro, ginger, and garlic, will naturally add a delightful aroma to your dhokla. Ensure that these ingredients are of high quality and properly stored to maintain their freshness and potency.

3. Controlled Steam: The Instant Pot helps in trapping and circulating steam, allowing the dhokla to cook in a moist environment. Steaming helps in retaining the aromatic compounds of the ingredients used in the batter, resulting in a fragrant and appetizing aroma.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Dhokla

While steaming is the most common method for cooking dhokla in the Instant Pot, there are a few other cooking methods you can try:

1. Pot-in-pot Method: This method is useful when you want to cook a smaller batch of dhokla or multiple varieties at the same time. Place the dhokla batter in a heatproof bowl or container that fits inside the Instant Pot. Add water to the Instant Pot, place a trivet inside, and then put the bowl of dhokla batter on the trivet. Cook as per the usual steaming instructions.

2. Steam Rack Method: If you don’t have a suitable container for steaming, you can use the Instant Pot’s steam rack. Pour the dhokla batter directly onto the steam rack, ensuring that it is evenly spread. Add water to the Instant Pot, place the steam rack inside, and then close the lid. Cook as per the usual steaming instructions. This method may result in a thinner dhokla but works well if you prefer a different texture.

3. Foil Packets: If you want to make individual portions of dhokla, you can create foil packets. Cut squares of aluminum foil, place a spoonful of batter in the center of each square, and fold the foil into tightly sealed packets. Arrange the packets on a trivet inside the Instant Pot, add water, and then close the lid. Cook as per the usual steaming instructions. This method allows for easy portioning and serving.

Tips For Making Dhokla In Instant Pot

To ensure success in making dhokla in an Instant Pot, here are some helpful tips:

1. Grease the Container: It is essential to grease the container or bowl thoroughly before pouring the dhokla batter. This will prevent the dhokla from sticking to the sides and ensure easy removal once it is cooked.

2. Use a Thin Batter: For a light and fluffy texture, it is crucial to maintain the right consistency of the batter. The batter should be of medium pouring consistency, slightly thinner than pancake batter. If the batter is too thick, the dhokla may turn out dense and heavy.

3. Allow for Expansion: Dhokla batter expands during the fermentation and steaming process. Make sure you leave some room at the top of the container or foil packets to allow for this expansion. Overfilling the container may cause the batter to spill over during cooking.

4. Natural Pressure Release: After the dhokla is cooked, let the Instant Pot naturally release the pressure for at least 5-10 minutes before opening the lid. This will help in achieving a soft and spongy texture.

5. Cooling and Cutting: Once the dhokla is cooked and pressure is released, allow it to cool down before cutting into desired shapes. Cutting hot dhokla may lead to crumbling, so it is best to let it cool to room temperature or refrigerate it for a while before slicing.

6. Experiment with Toppings: To make your dhokla more visually appealing and flavorful, experiment with various toppings. You can sprinkle some grated coconut, chopped cilantro, pomegranate seeds, or even sev (crispy Indian noodles) on top of the dhokla before serving. These toppings add texture, color, and a burst of flavor.

Creative Instant Pot Dhokla Recipes And Variations

Once you have mastered the art of making dhokla in an Instant Pot, you can get creative with flavors and variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Vegetable Dhokla: Add grated vegetables like carrots, cabbage, or zucchini to the dhokla batter before steaming. This adds nutrition, color, and a refreshing crunch to the dish.

2. Spinach Dhokla: Blend spinach puree into the batter before fermentation to create a vibrant green dhokla. This variation is not only visually appealing but also adds a mild earthy flavor.

3. Masala Dhokla: Mix in some homemade masala powder or garam masala to the batter for a spicier and more aromatic version of dhokla.

4. Cheese Dhokla: Add grated cheese or crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the batter before steaming. This variation adds a creamy and indulgent twist to traditional dhokla.

5. Instant Khaman Dhokla: Khaman dhokla is a popular variation made using gram flour (besan) instead of rice flour. The process remains the same, but the flavors are slightly different. Replace the rice flour with gram flour in the dhokla batter and proceed with fermentation and steaming as usual.

Conclusion

Making dhokla in an Instant Pot is a game-changer, providing convenience and efficiency without compromising on taste and texture. The Instant Pot’s ability to preserve flavors, retain aroma, and provide a controlled cooking environment makes it an ideal tool for preparing this traditional Indian dish. By following the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can achieve the perfect texture, enhance the flavors, and enjoy the delightful aroma of dhokla each time you make it in your Instant Pot. So, fire up your Instant Pot and whip up some delicious dhokla for a healthy and satisfying meal.

FAQS

What Is Dhokla?

Dhokla is a popular Indian savory snack that is made with a batter consisting of gram flour and yogurt, seasoned with spices and steamed to form a light and fluffy texture.

What Is An Instant Pot?

An instant pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used for various cooking methods such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more.

Why Make Dhokla In An Instant Pot?

Making dhokla in an instant pot is not only convenient but it also yields perfect results every time. The instant pot’s pressure cooking feature allows for quick and even cooking, resulting in a soft and spongy texture for the dhokla.

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Dhokla In An Instant Pot?

The main ingredients for making dhokla in an instant pot are besan (gram flour), yogurt, water, lemon juice, and a variety of spices such as turmeric, cumin, and mustard seeds. You will also need oil, eno fruit salt, and fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing.

How Long Does It Take To Make Dhokla In An Instant Pot?

It takes about 25-30 minutes to make dhokla in an instant pot, including the preparation and cooking time. This is much quicker compared to traditional methods of making dhokla which may take up to an hour.