Chana Dal Dhokla (Steamed Lentil Cakes)

Ingredients

• 1 cup chana dal (bengal gram), soaked 15 minutes
• 1/4 cup curd (yogurt)
• 1/2 tsp ginger paste
• 1/2 tsp green chilli paste (optional, or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp fruit salt (Eno) or baking soda
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp oil
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp sesame seeds
• 6-8 curry leaves
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

1. 1

   Drain the soaked chana dal and grind to a smooth, thick batter with 2-3 tbsp water.

2. 2

   Mix in curd, ginger paste, green chilli paste (if using), and salt. Let it rest 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Grease a shallow steaming dish or thali. Boil water in a steamer or large pot.

4. 4

   Just before steaming, add fruit salt to the batter, sprinkle 1 tsp water over it, and gently fold in one direction until frothy.

5. 5

   Pour batter into the greased dish and steam on medium heat for 12-15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. 6

   Heat 1 tsp oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds and sesame seeds. When they splutter, add curry leaves.

7. 7

   Pour tempering over the steamed dhokla. Garnish with coriander and cut into squares.