Dhokla, a delicious savoury snack from the cuisine of Gujarat, India, is more than just a treat for your taste buds – it is also a smart choice for those looking to shed a few kilos. This light, fluffy and slightly sour cake is made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, giving it a unique texture and delicious flavour. What makes dhokla special is its low calorie and high protein content, making it a filling and weight loss option. Rich in essential nutrients like iron, fibre and vitamins, dhokla helps maintain a balanced diet and also helps you meet your weight loss goals. Whether eaten as a snack or as a light meal, dhokla is a delicious and nutritious food for weight loss!

Benefits of Dhokla for weight loss

Here are 6 ways eating dhokla can help you lose weight:

1. Low Calories

One of the most important benefits of dhokla for weight loss is its low calorie content. Made primarily from fermented rice and chickpea flour, dhokla is steamed instead of fried, which keeps its calorie count low. One piece of dhokla (58 grams) is believed to contain just 152 calories, making it a light meal or snack option that you can opt for instead of high-calorie foods.

2. Improves metabolism

According to a study published by the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, fermented foods along with daily exercise can help burn calories and body fat. For those who don’t know, dhokla is made from fermented rice and chickpeas. Dietician Gauri Anand says, “Fermented foods like dhokla contain beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is associated with better metabolism, digestion, and nutrient absorption.” By improving gut health, dhokla can indirectly support a more effective metabolic rate, which is beneficial for weight loss.

3. Rich in Protein

We know how much protein we need for weight loss. “Protein helps build and repair tissues, maintain muscle mass, and keep you feeling full for longer. Dhokla contains gram flour, which is a good source of protein.” One serving of dhokla contains 5.7 grams of protein, which can help reduce appetite and prevent overeating.

Also read: 7 Delicious Vegetarian Breakfast Recipes for Weight Loss

4. Rich in fibre

Dhokla is made from fermented ingredients which contribute to its fibre content. One piece of dhokla contains 2.5 grams of dietary fibre which aids digestion, makes you feel full and helps control blood sugar levels. “The fibre in dhokla can also help control appetite and reduce the likelihood of snacking between meals, thereby promoting a balanced diet and weight loss,” explains Anand.

5. Low fat

Dhokla is steamed, which means it does not require oil or excess fat to make it. This means it is lower in calories than other packaged snacks or deep-fried foods. By including dhokla in your diet, you can enjoy a low-fat snack that also provides essential nutrients without the extra calories from fat. This can help maintain a calorie deficit (when you are consuming fewer calories over time), which is essential for weight loss.

6. Aids digestion

Despite its low calorie and fat content, dhokla is packed with essential nutrients. It provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B, iron, magnesium, and folic acid, which can improve your overall health. It’s also worth mentioning that dhokla is also high in fiber, which eases digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. “Improved digestive function is also associated with better absorption of nutrients that can support overall health,” says Anand.

Also read: Try this healthy twist with this easy Sama Rice Dhokla recipe

Healthy Dhokla Recipe

Material

• 1 cup gram flour
• 1/2 cup semolina (rava or semolina)
• 1 cup curd
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp ginger-green chilli paste
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda or 1 tsp eno
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon oil
• salt to taste

For the tempering

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 2-3 green chillies, chopped
• Some curry leaves
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnishing)

How to make Dhokla?

• In a large mixing bowl, add gram flour, semolina, curd, water, ginger-green chilli paste, turmeric powder and salt. Mix well and make a smooth batter. Leave it for 15-20 minutes.
• After the resting period, add the lemon juice and baking soda to the batter. Mix gently but quickly to incorporate the soda.
• Grease a steaming tray or thali with little oil and pour the batter into it.
• Cook the mixture in a steamer or pressure cooker (without whistle) for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre of the mixture comes out clean.
• When it is cooked, remove the tray from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut the dhokla into square pieces.
• For tempering, heat oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds and let them crackle.
• Add sesame seeds, green chillies and curry leaves to it and fry for a minute.
• Pour the seasoning over the dhokla pieces and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot or at room temperature with green chutney.

Enjoy dhokla and its weight loss benefits!