Steaming through centuries: The evolution of Gujarat's popular dish Dhokla!

Picture this: It's a lazy morning at home and the tantalizing aroma of freshly steamed dhoklas wafts through the air, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Dhokla, the pride of Gujjus, isn't just a snack; it's a comfort dish that embodies the essence of Gujarati culture and tradition.

Its soft texture, tangy flavor, and versatility have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts far and wide. However, the journey of dhokla from its humble origins to becoming a culinary sensation is a tale worth exploring. Let's delve into the history of this iconic Gujarati dish.

Steaming holds significant importance in Indian culinary practices. Gujarat boasts a variety of steamed delicacies, including dudhi muthiya, khaman, patra, and numerous others. And dhokla is just one of these.

The roots of dhokla can be traced back through centuries of Gujarat's culinary history. A similar dish called "dukkai" is documented as early as 1068 AD in Jain text, while the term "dhokla" makes its appearance in Gujarati Varanaka Samuchaya around AD 1520.

A food historian KT Achaya in his work, "A Historical Dictionary of Indian Food," Achaya provides insight into the traditional preparation of dhokla. He describes a method wherein a mixture of rice flour and besan flour, in a ratio of 2:1, is left to ferment overnight with curd. This fermented batter is then steamed in slabs, subsequently cut into pieces, and adorned with vibrant garnishes like fresh coriander leaves, fried mustard seeds, and shredded coconut.

Over time, dhokla has undergone various transformations, leading to the creation of numerous variations. The advent of modern cooking techniques and ingredients has allowed chefs to experiment with flavors and textures.

Today, one can find a wide range of dhokla types, including Khaman Dhokla, Nylon Dhokla, Rava Dhokla, and even instant mixes for quick preparation.

So, the next time you bite into a piece of dhokla, remember the centuries of history and culture that have gone into making it the beloved dish it is today. Dhokla, after all, isn't just food; it's an experience that transcends time and borders, bringing people together one delicious bite at a time.