Dal Dhokli/ दाल ढोकली
Dal Dhokli is Also Known as Lentil Dumplings in Spiced Soup
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About Dal Dhokli
Dal Dhokli is a culinary gem from the heart of Gujarat and Rajasthan, embodying the essence of comfort food with its rich and flavorful profile. Imagine tender, hand-rolled wheat flour dumplings, known as "Dhokli," gently simmered in a fragrant lentil broth seasoned with a symphony of Indian spices. The lentils, cooked to a creamy perfection, blend seamlessly with the Dhoklis, creating a dish that is both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
This dish is more than just food; it's an experience that evokes memories of home-cooked meals, bringing warmth and love to the table. The tangy, sweet, and spicy notes, enhanced by a touch of tamarind and jaggery, make every bite a burst of flavor. Dal Dhokli is perfect for those seeking a wholesome meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious. It's a one-pot wonder that marries simplicity with taste, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a comforting solo indulgence.
Recipe of Home Cooked Dal Dhokli/ दाल ढोकली
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for making Dal Dhokli at Home.
Prepare the Dhokli Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and a little oil or ghee. Gradually add water to form a smooth, soft dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s pliable. Let it rest for 10 minutes. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Prepare the Dal Base:
Wash the toor dal thoroughly and add it to a pressure cooker with enough water (about 4 cups). Cook for about 3-4 whistles, or until the dal is soft and fully cooked. After the pressure releases, mash the dal lightly with a spoon. (Time taken: 15 minutes)
Prepare the Dhokli:
Take the rested dough and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball, then flatten them into thin discs. Cut the discs into small pieces or diamonds. Set them aside. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Tempering the Dal:
In a pan, heat oil or ghee. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they splutter, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing), minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic. Add chopped onions and tomatoes, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. (Time taken: 5-7 minutes)
Add Spices to the Dal:
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala to the tempering. Stir well to combine, then pour in the cooked dal. Add more water to adjust the consistency of the dal to your liking. Bring the mixture to a boil. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Cook the Dhokli in the Dal:
Once the dal is boiling, gently drop the prepared dhokli pieces into the dal. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking. Let the dal simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the dhokli to cook through and absorb the flavors of the dal. (Time taken: 15-20 minutes)
Final Touches:
Once the dhokli is cooked and soft, add salt to taste. If using, add tamarind pulp for a tangy flavor. Stir in fresh coriander leaves and a dash of lemon juice (optional). Simmer for another 5 minutes. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Serving:
Your Dal Dhokli is ready to serve! Ladle into bowls and enjoy this warm, comforting dish. Serve it with a side of yogurt or pickle, if desired. (Time taken: 2 minutes)
Total Time: Approximately 55-70 minutes