Dal Dhokli Recipe | Traditional Gujarati Dal Dhokli – GujaratiFoodRecipes.in

Introduction to Dal Dhokli Recipe

If you have ever explored Gujarati food recipes, you must have come across the soul-satisfying dal dhokli recipe – a one-pot meal that combines the wholesomeness of spiced lentil curry (dal) with soft, freshly kneaded wheat flour dumplings (dhokli). This Gujarati dal dhokli recipe is not only nutritious but also heartwarming, often enjoyed as a weekend family meal.

Known as a perfect blend of comfort and tradition, dal dhokli has gained popularity across India and even internationally. Some people search for it as dal dhokla ingredients recipe, while others look up the traditional dal dhokli recipe passed on by grandmothers. Whatever name you call it by, this dish is an inseparable part of Gujarati cuisine.

In this guide, we’ll share a complete dal dhokli recipe with step-by-step instructions, tips, nutritional benefits, different variations (including Kathiyawadi dal dhokli recipe), and expert FAQs.

What is Dal Dhokli?

Dal dhokli is a traditional Gujarati comfort food made by simmering spiced whole wheat flour squares in a tangy, sweet, and flavorful toor dal (pigeon pea lentil) curry. Unlike simple dal, this dish becomes a wholesome one-pot meal when paired with soft dumplings.

In Gujarat, it is often enjoyed on Sundays as a leisurely lunch, paired with buttermilk, pickle, and papad. Compared to regular rotis and dal, dal dhokli eliminates the need for multiple side dishes, making it convenient and satisfying.

History and Origin

The traditional dal dhokli recipe has its roots in Gujarati households. It was developed as a frugal yet hearty meal, where leftover dal was given new life by adding hand-rolled wheat dumplings. Over time, it evolved into a beloved recipe prepared with careful tempering, jaggery, kokum, peanuts, and spices.

In Kathiyawad (Saurashtra region of Gujarat), the Kathiyawadi dal dhokli recipe is prepared spicier with a hint of garlic and extra red chilies. On the other hand, some Rajasthani versions of dal dhokli, also called “Dal ki Fulkari,” lean towards a smokier and more tangy profile.

For the Dal (Lentil Curry)

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)
• 2 tbsp peanuts
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 kokum pieces (or tamarind pulp)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander-cumin powder
• 1 tbsp jaggery (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt to taste

For the Dhokli (Wheat Flour Dumplings)

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 tbsp besan (gram flour)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Water to knead

For the Tempering (Tadka)

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 2 dry red chilies
• 10 curry leaves
• 1-inch stick cinnamon (optional, for aroma)

Step-by-Step Dal Dhokli Recipe

Step 1 – Preparing the Dal

1. Rinse the pigeon pea lentils (toor dal) thoroughly.
2. Pressure cook the dal with turmeric and 2 cups of water for 3–4 whistles until soft and mushy.
3. Mash the dal and keep aside.

Step 2 – Making the Dhokli

1. Combine wheat flour, besan, spices, ajwain, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Add oil and knead into a semi-soft dough using water.
3. Roll out into thin chapati-like discs.
4. Cut into diamond or square-shaped pieces (this becomes the dhokli).

Step 3 – Preparing the Tadka

1. Heat ghee in a deep pan.
2. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and dry red chilies.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until mushy.
4. Now add peanuts, jaggery, kokum, and ground spices.

Step 4 – Combining Everything

1. Add cooked dal and adjust consistency with water. Bring to a boil.
2. Gradually slide the prepared dhokli pieces into the boiling dal, stirring gently.
3. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until dhoklis are cooked.
4. Add fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Variations of Dal Dhokli Recipe

Kathiyawadi Dal Dhokli Recipe

This variation uses garlic, extra green chilies, and lots of ground spices, making it much spicier than the mild Gujarati version. A dash of lemon juice and roasted peanuts add crunch and tang.

Sweet & Tangy Gujarati Dal Dhokli Recipe

The popular Gujarati dal dhokli recipe usually balances sweetness of jaggery with tang from kokum or tamarind, creating a lip-smacking contrast.

Healthy Dal Dhokli Recipe

For a health-conscious twist, use multigrain flour for dhokli, reduce jaggery, and add plenty of vegetables like spinach, drumstick, or bottle gourd.

Nutritional Benefits of Dal Dhokli

• Rich in protein from toor dal and besan
• Loaded with fiber due to whole wheat flour
• Balanced meal – carbs, protein, and healthy fats in one dish
• Comfort food that is also hearty and filling
• Customizable for kids and seniors as it is soft and easy to digest

Expert Tips for Perfect Dal Dhokli

• Always add dhokli to boiling dal, or else they may turn soggy.
• Roll out the dhokli not too thick and not too thin.
• For added flavor, squeeze a dash of lemon juice before serving.
• Tastes best when enjoyed hot and fresh.

Serving Ideas

Dal Dhokli is often served hot, directly from the pan, paired with:

• Buttermilk
• Papad
• Pickle
• A spoon of ghee

It is a complete meal in itself and does not require chapati or rice.

Dal Dhokli Recipe by Tarla Dalal

Renowned chef Tarla Dalal made this dish globally popular through her cookbooks and recipes. Her Dal Dhokli recipe focuses on Gujarat’s authentic flavors, combining jaggery and kokum for that sweet-spicy-tangy balance. Many food enthusiasts still search for Dal Dhokli recipe by Tarla Dalal to replicate the classic taste at home.

Related Gujarati Food Recipes

If you are a fan of Gujarati cuisine, you may also like:

• Khaman Dhokla
• Handvo
• Sev Tameta nu Shaak
• Undhiyu
• Fafda Jalebi

(For more Gujarati vegetarian delights, check do-follow food blogs like gujaratifoodrecipes.in)

FAQ: About Dal Dhokli Recipe

1. What is Dal Dhokli made of?

Dal Dhokli is made of toor dal curry flavored with spices, jaggery, kokum, and wheat flour dumplings.

2. Is Dal Dhokli same as Dal Dhokla?

No. Dal Dhokli is a lentil-based dish with dumplings, while Dal Dhokla is a steamed fermented snack. Some searches for “dal dhokla ingredients recipe” actually mean dal dhokli.

3. How to make traditional dal dhokli recipe at home?

The traditional dal dhokli recipe involves preparing spiced toor dal and simmering wheat flour dough shapes in it.

4. Which dal is used in Dal Dhokli?

Authentic Gujarati Dal Dhokli is prepared using toor dal (pigeon pea lentils).

5. Can we make dal dhokli without jaggery?

Yes. While jaggery adds a sweet flavor, it is optional. Some versions like Kathiyawadi dal dhokli recipe are spicier and skip the jaggery.

6. How is Gujarati dal dhokli recipe different from Rajasthani?

Gujarati dal dhokli is sweet and tangy, while Rajasthani dal dhokli is spicier and less sweet.

7. Is Dal Dhokli healthy?

Yes. It is a protein-rich, filling, and wholesome one-pot meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

8. Can I prepare dal dhokli in advance?

You can cook dal and dough separately, but combine dhokli with dal only before serving to prevent them from turning soggy.

9. How long does Dal Dhokli last?

Dal Dhokli tastes best fresh, but refrigerated dal (without dhokli) can last up to 2 days.

10. Which chef is famous for Dal Dhokli recipe?

Tarla Dalal is one of the most famous chefs who popularized Dal Dhokli across Indian households.