Gujarati cuisine is known for its wholesome, flavorful, and rustic preparations, and one such hidden gem is the Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak. This traditional curry, made with spiced wheat flour dumplings simmered in a tangy, spicy gravy, is a soul-satisfying dish from the Kathiyawadi region of Gujarat.
In this detailed blog, we will explore the Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak Gujarati recipe, the ingredients used, its cultural significance, cooking tips, and how to prepare it step-by-step. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a culinary explorer, this recipe will take you straight to the heart of rural Gujarat.
What is Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak?
Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak is a one-pot curry made with wheat flour dumplings (dhokli) that are cooked in a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet gravy. The flavors are bold, earthy, and warming – just like the people of Saurashtra.
It is a staple in rural Gujarati homes, especially when vegetables are scarce or during monsoons. Pair it with bajara rotla or kathiyawadi vaghareli khichdi recipe, and you’ve got a complete hearty meal.
Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak Ingredients
To cook this authentic dish, you need easily available pantry items. Here’s what you need:
🔸 For the Dhokli (dumplings):
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (gehun ka atta)
- 1 tbsp gram flour (besan)
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 tsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Water (for kneading)
🔸 For the Curry:
- 2 tbsp groundnut oil or any cooking oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1 tbsp ginger-green chili paste
- 1 chopped tomato
- 1½ tbsp jaggery (gud)
- 1 tbsp tamarind pulp (imli)
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 3 cups water
- Chopped coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe for Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak in English
1. Prepare the Dhokli Dough
Mix and Knead
In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, besan, red chili powder, turmeric, ajwain, salt, and oil. Add water gradually and knead into a firm yet pliable dough.
Pro Tip: Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes to soften.
2. Shape the Dhokli
Flatten and Cut
Take small portions of the dough and roll it out thin like roti. Cut into diamond or square shapes using a knife or pizza cutter.
Traditional Tip
In rural Kathiyawad, women roll and cut these in bulk and store them semi-dry for future use.
3. Prepare the Curry Base
Tempering the Spices
Heat oil in a thick-bottomed kadai. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, hing, and let them crackle. Then add ginger-chili paste and sauté for a minute.
Add the Tang and Sweetness
Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric, jaggery, tamarind pulp, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and the oil starts to separate.
Add Water
Pour about 3 cups of water and let the mixture come to a rolling boil.
4. Add Dhoklis to the Curry
Drop Carefully
Gently add the cut dhoklis one by one into the boiling curry. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Cook Covered
Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes on medium flame until the dhoklis become soft and fully cooked. They should swell and float to the top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the flame, add chopped coriander, and a drizzle of groundnut oil if you like it richer.
How to Serve Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak
- Serve hot with bajara rotla, bhakri, or even plain rice.
- Pair it with buttermilk or chaas for an authentic Kathiyawadi experience.
- For a full Kathiyawadi meal, add Kathiyawadi Vaghareli Khichdi and Lasaniya Bataka on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ No fancy ingredients – just rustic, real food.
✅ Vegan & nutritious.
✅ Perfect for winters or rainy evenings.
✅ Comes together quickly and easily.
Tips for Perfect Dhokli Nu Shaak
- Always add dhoklis to boiling curry – never cold or lukewarm.
- Use groundnut oil for authentic flavor.
- Don’t skip jaggery – it balances the heat and tanginess.
- Make the dhokli dough firm but not dry.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving Estimate)
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~240 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Fats | 8g |
This is a wholesome dish filled with complex carbs, iron, and fiber.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Dhokli Nu Shaak comes from Saurashtra’s farming community, where innovation with minimal ingredients was a necessity. It represents how Gujarati cuisine transforms basics into bold, flavorful dishes. Similar dishes exist across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, but Kathiyawadi Dhokli stands out with its rich tadka and spicy tamarind gravy.
FAQs – Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak Recipe
1. What is Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak?
It’s a traditional Gujarati curry made with wheat flour dumplings cooked in a spicy, tangy tomato-based gravy.
2. How is Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak different from Dal Dhokli?
Dal Dhokli uses lentils as a base, while Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak uses a spiced tomato-tamarind gravy with no lentils.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can try using jowar or bajra flour instead of wheat flour, but the texture will vary.
4. How long does Dhokli Nu Shaak stay fresh?
It stays good for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat with a little water before serving.
5. Is it a vegan-friendly recipe?
Absolutely! There are no dairy products used in this dish.
6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, vegetables like bottle gourd (lauki) or brinjal can be added for more nutrition.
7. Is Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak spicy?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the chili quantity based on your preference.
8. Can I make the dhokli in advance?
Yes, you can roll and cut the dhokli and store them in the fridge for a few hours.
9. What is the best accompaniment to Dhokli Nu Shaak?
It goes best with Kathiyawadi Vaghareli Khichdi, bajra rotla, or even steamed rice.
10. Where can I find more authentic Gujarati food recipes online?
You can find them on gujaratifoodrecipes.in – your go-to destination for the best Gujarati recipe online.
Conclusion
The Kathiyawadi Dhokli Nu Shaak Gujarati recipe is more than a dish—it’s a warm hug from a rustic kitchen in Gujarat. With its spicy, tangy, and earthy flavors, it’s perfect for days when you want something simple yet satisfying.
Bookmark this page, try it in your kitchen, and enjoy the rich flavors of Kathiyawad right at home. Don’t forget to check out more traditional recipes and let your kitchen tell a story of India’s culinary legacy.