Gujarati Dhokla Made Easy in a Pressure Cooker

Gujarati cuisine is known for its light, nutritious, and flavorful dishes—and dhokla is a shining example. This steamed, spongy snack made from a fermented batter of gram flour (besan) is a staple not just in Gujarat, but across Indian kitchens.

Traditionally prepared using a steamer or idli stand, dhokla can also be made effortlessly using a pressure cooker. And when that pressure cooker is Meyer Presta, you get the added confidence of precision cooking, consistent heat distribution, and a traditional whistle system that offers complete peace of mind.

Why Make Dhokla in the Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker?

The Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker isn't just another kitchen appliance—it’s a thoughtfully crafted tool built for Indian cooking traditions.

Its heavy-gauge nickel-free stainless steel construction ensures safe cooking without leaching toxins and works well with gram flour-based batters. The sandwich bottom construction guarantees even heat distribution, preventing scorching at the base. The traditional whistle system offers audible cues for steaming control, letting you manage timing with confidence. Meyer Presta is also easy to clean and works on all cooktops, including induction.

Whether it’s your first attempt at dhokla or your weekly ritual, Meyer Presta makes it easier and more reliable.

MEYER Presta Tri-Ply With Outer Lid Pressure Cooker 5.5L

Ingredients (For 3–4 Servings)

• 1 cup besan (gram flour)

• 1 tbsp semolina (rava/sooji)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste

• 1 tsp Eno fruit salt (or baking soda)

• 1 tsp sugar

• Salt to taste

• 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

• 1 tbsp oil (for greasing)

For Tempering:

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

• 1/2 tsp sesame seeds

• 1–2 green chilies (slit)

• A few curry leaves

• 2 tbsp water

• 1 tsp sugar

Equipment

• Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker

• Small steel/heatproof bowl or thali

• Trivet or steaming ring

• Lid without gasket and whistle

• Foil or steel plate (to cover the dhokla bowl)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine besan, semolina, ginger-chili paste, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Slowly add water and whisk into a smooth, lump-free batter.

Just before steaming, stir in Eno or baking soda and mix gently. The batter will rise and become light and airy.

Tip: Do not over-mix after adding Eno. Immediate steaming gives the best texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meyer Presta Cooker

Add 1.5–2 cups of water into the Meyer Presta cooker base. Place a trivet or ring stand inside.

Grease your steel dhokla plate or bowl with oil and pour the batter into it (fill only up to halfway to allow rising). Cover the batter bowl with foil or a plate to prevent water droplets from falling in. Place the bowl inside the cooker on the trivet.

Important: Remove the gasket and whistle from the Presta lid for gentle, open steaming.

Step 3: Steam the Dhokla

Close the lid without the gasket and whistle. Steam on medium heat for 15–18 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean. Turn off the heat and let the cooker cool slightly before removing the dhokla bowl.

Step 4: Prepare Tempering

In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter. Add sesame seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves and sauté briefly.

Add a little water and sugar, then pour the tempering over the steamed dhokla.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Let the dhokla rest for a few minutes. Slice into squares or diamonds. Garnish with fresh coriander and grated coconut, if desired.

Why You’ll Love Making Dhokla in Meyer Presta

The Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker makes quick and safe steaming possible without needing special equipment. Its even-heating tri-ply base ensures your dhokla is uniformly fluffy with no soggy or burnt spots. And with its easy-to-clean build, you’ll spend more time enjoying your food and less time scrubbing your cookware.

Conclusion

If you’ve been hesitant about making dhokla at home, the Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker takes the guesswork out of the process. Its traditional whistle system, high-grade construction, and ease of use make it an ideal partner for steaming soft, spongy, golden dhoklas—just like the ones in Gujarati homes.

So, why wait? Fire up your Presta and enjoy a plate of homemade goodness, ready in minutes and made with love.