Add the eno (fruit salt) or activated baking soda to the batter last, whisk one direction for exactly 30–40 seconds until it froths, and steam immediately — the gas bubbles are what make it spongy, and they collapse within a minute if you wait.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook20 min
MakesServes 4
CuisineIndian
Cost$
Vegan
Contains gluten · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Whisk besan, semolina, ginger-chili paste, turmeric, salt, 1 tbsp sugar, a little lemon juice and water into a smooth, thick-pourable batter. Rest 10 min. Grease a steaming tin and get the steamer hot.15 min
Stir eno into the batter, whisk one direction till frothy, pour immediately into the tin.1 min
Steam 15–18 min until a toothpick comes clean. Cool 5 min, then cut into squares.20 min
Temper mustard, sesame, curry leaves and slit chilies in oil; add 1/2 cup water with remaining sugar, boil, and pour over. Garnish with coriander and coconut.5 min
Can you make Khaman Dhokla in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Khaman Dhokla? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Khaman Dhokla ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Khaman Dhokla gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Khaman Dhokla vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
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