Mug Dhokla in Microwave

          Dhokla, a traditional Gujarati snack is typically steamed but they come out perfect in a microwave too, in much less time. This is a very simple, easy to prepare and a completely hassle free recipe. In just two and a half minutes, you have healthy piping hot dhokla ready to be devoured. They turn out real soft and spongy. 

          Pour some flavorful tempering over it and enjoy them directly from the mug. Alternatively, you can slice them and pour the tempering over it. You can also add some green chutney if preferred. Enjoy!!!

          These mug dhoklas are ideal as an evening tea-time snack, for breakfast or to satisfy sudden hunger pangs. It can be prepared either with besan (gram flour) or sooji (semolina). So this is the latter version.

          They are both wholesome and nutritious, and they can be packed as a lunch box meal too. This is an instant version and is ready in no time. With a slight hint of sweetness, tanginess and spiciness, they are a great party treat too. 

Dhokla - 

• 1/2 cup sooji / semolina
• 1/4 cup yoghurt
• 2 tbsp. oil
• 1 tsp. ginger-green chili paste
• salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1 tsp. sugar
• pinch of asafoetida
• 1/2 tsp. roasted cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp. baking soda 

Tempering - 

• 1 tbsp. oil
• 1/2 tsp. mustard seeds
• 1 tsp. sesame seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1/2 tsp. red chili powder 
• 1 tsp. lime juice
• 2-3 tbsp. water
• 1/2 tsp. sugar (opt)

Garnishing - 

• 1 tsp. coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp. fresh grated coconut

            In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients (except baking soda) mentioned under Dhokla. Add required quantity of water and set aside for 10 minutes. 

          Add more water if required to form a batter of pouring consistency. Be sure that there are no lumps. 

          Add baking soda and give it a stir. Pour into a greased microwave safe mug / cup and microwave for 2 & 1/2 minutes. Fill only till 3/4 of the mug. Do the toothpick test to check if it is done. 

           Tempering - Heat oil in a pan and temper with mustard seeds. After it stops spluttering, add sesame seeds, curry leaves and red chili powder. Switch off the flame and add 2-3 tbsp. water, sugar and lime juice.

           Give it a stir and pour this tempering over the dhokla. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and fresh grated coconut. Enjoy them directly from the mug just as it is or with green chutney.

          Alternatively, you can slice them and pour the tempering over it. Serve, garnished with chopped coriander leaves and fresh grated coconut.