Sweet Corn Dhokla: A Healthy and Delicious Twist on a Classic Gujarati Snack

Sweet Corn Dhokla, also known as Makai Dhokla, is a light, healthy, and vibrant snack made with fresh corn. Dhokla is a timeless and beloved dish from Gujarat, famous across India for its soft, spongy texture and mildly tangy flavor. Traditionally made with a fermented batter and steamed to perfection, dhokla has many variations. Sweet Corn Dhokla is one such variation, perfect for monsoon evenings and packed with health benefits.

Health Benefits of Sweet Corn Dhokla

• Rich in Fiber: Sweet corn is naturally high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion, preventing constipation, and keeping you fuller for longer.

• Low in Fat: Dhokla is steamed, not fried, and even the tempering uses minimal oil, making it ideal for those avoiding excess fat.

• Supports Weight Management: Light, low-calorie, yet filling, thanks to the fiber in corn and protein in curd, this snack is perfect for evening munching.

• Boosts Energy: Corn contains complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly, keeping you active throughout the evening.

Ingredients Required

• 1 cup Rava (semolina)

• ½ cup sour curd

• ¾ cup water

• ½ tsp sugar

• Salt to taste

• 1.5 cup sweet corn

• 1 tsp ginger

• 3 green chillies

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• ½ tsp red chilli flakes

• ½ tsp oregano

• 1 tbsp peanut oil

• 1 tsp baking powder

Tempering (Tadka)

• 2 tbsp peanut oil

• 2 tsp mustard seeds

• 4 green chillies

• ½ tsp asafoetida (hing)

• 1 sprig curry leaves

Method

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rava, sour curd, water, sugar, and salt. Whisk into a smooth batter and let it rest for 20 minutes.

2. Grind the sweet corn into a fine paste.

3. Mix the corn paste into the rested batter. Add turmeric, red chilli flakes, oregano, and a little oil. Stir gently to combine.

4. Grease a plate or steaming tray. Heat about 1 cup of water in an idli steamer.

5. Add baking powder to the batter, mix well, and pour into the greased tray.

6. Steam the batter on high flame for about 20 minutes.

7. Prepare the tempering by heating oil, then adding mustard seeds, green chillies, asafoetida, and curry leaves.

8. Pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla, cut into desired shapes, and serve warm with coriander chutney.

For a light and nutritious evening snack, Sweet Corn Dhokla is a perfect choice. This innovative twist on a classic recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, light on the stomach, and wonderfully satisfying. Give it a try and make your snack time healthier and tastier!