Gujarati Dal Dhokli Recipe – 2025

If you’re craving something wholesome, hearty, and traditionally Indian, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Gujarati Dal Dhokli. This comforting, one-pot meal brings together spiced wheat dumplings simmered in a tangy-sweet toor dal (pigeon pea lentil) — a signature dish from Gujarat that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

In this detailed post, you’ll learn how to make authentic Gujarati Dal Dhokli, with tips, variations, and everything you need to master this flavorful dish at home.

🥣 What Is Gujarati Dal Dhokli?

Dal Dhokli is a traditional Gujarati dish made by simmering whole wheat flour dumplings (called dhokli) in a spiced and sweet toor dal. It’s a wholesome, protein-rich, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Unlike most Indian meals that pair a dal with rice or roti, Dal Dhokli is an all-in-one dish — kind of like an Indian-style pasta in lentil soup!

What makes Gujarati Dal Dhokli unique is its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. It’s a celebration of contrasts — soft dhoklis soaking up a richly flavored dal, finished with aromatic tempering and garnished with coriander and lemon.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Authentic Gujarati Flavor
✅ Easy One-Pot Meal
✅ Uses Simple Pantry Staples
✅ Vegetarian & Protein-Rich
✅ Comfort Food for All Seasons

Whether you’re Gujarati or just a fan of Indian regional cuisine, this recipe will help you recreate a homestyle dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dal:

1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
1 medium tomato, chopped
½ tsp turmeric powder
1½ tbsp jaggery, grated
2 tbsp tamarind pulp (or 1 tsp amchur)
Salt to taste
4–5 cups water (as needed)

For the Dhokli:

1 cup whole wheat flour
2 tbsp besan (gram flour)
½ tsp red chili powder
½ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
Salt to taste
1 tsp oil
Water (for kneading)

For the Tempering (Tadka):

2 tbsp ghee or oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
Pinch of asafoetida (hing)
2–3 dry red chilies
1-inch piece ginger, grated
8–10 curry leaves
1–2 green chilies (optional)

Garnish:

Fresh coriander leaves
A squeeze of lemon juice

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Gujarati Dal Dhokli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Toor Dal

Rinse toor dal under running water.
Pressure cook with 3 cups of water and turmeric for 3–4 whistles or until soft.
Mash the dal and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dhokli Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, besan, turmeric, chili powder, ajwain, salt, and oil.
Knead into a stiff but pliable dough using little water.
Rest the dough for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempered Dal

In a deep pot, heat ghee or oil.
Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
Add hing, red chilies, curry leaves, ginger, and green chilies.
Add chopped tomato and cook till soft.
Add tamarind pulp, jaggery, salt, and the mashed dal.
Add enough water (around 2–3 cups) to reach a soupy consistency.
Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dhokli

Divide dough into 2 balls and roll into thin circles (like roti).
Cut into diamond or square shapes using a knife or pizza cutter.

Step 5: Cook the Dhokli in the Dal

Once the dal is boiling, gently drop dhokli pieces one by one.
Stir gently to prevent sticking.
Let cook for 15–20 minutes uncovered, until dhoklis are soft and cooked through.
Stir occasionally and adjust water as needed.

Step 6: Final Touch

Check seasoning. Add more jaggery, lemon juice, or salt as per taste.
Garnish with fresh coriander.

🍛 How to Serve Dal Dhokli

Serve Gujarati Dal Dhokli piping hot in bowls, garnished with coriander and a dash of lemon juice. You can also serve it with:

Papad for crunch
Buttermilk (chaas) as a cooling drink
A small spoon of ghee for richness

It’s a full meal in itself — no rice or roti needed!

💡 Tips for the Best Dal Dhokli

Use freshly ground spices for maximum aroma.
Always boil the dal before adding dhokli — prevents sticking.
Roll the dough thin — thick dhoklis stay raw inside.
Stir gently while cooking dhoklis to avoid breaking them.
Make it ahead — flavors deepen as it sits!

🥜 Variations & Add-ons

Add boiled peanuts to the dal for texture.
Include bottle gourd (lauki) or drumsticks for a nutritious twist.
Use dry kokum instead of tamarind for a Maharashtrian-style flavor.
Add a touch of kasuri methi to the dhokli dough.

📦 Storage & Reheating

Dal Dhokli can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It tends to thicken, so add water while reheating and simmer gently. Avoid reheating more than once.

🧾 Nutrition Information (approx per serving)

Calories: 280–320
Protein: 10–12g
Carbs: 40–45g
Fat: 10–12g
Fiber: 8g

(Varies based on oil, jaggery, and flour quantity)

💬 Final Thoughts

Dal Dhokli is more than just food — it’s a nostalgic taste of Gujarat’s vibrant culinary heritage. With a perfect blend of spices, the heartiness of toor dal, and the melt-in-mouth dhoklis, this dish is sure to win hearts.

Whether you’re looking for a weekday meal or a comforting Sunday lunch, try this Gujarati Dal Dhokli recipe for a traditional, tasty, and easy-to-make Indian delight. Don’t forget to garnish generously and enjoy with your favorite side!