How Many Calories are in Gujarati Dhokla? A Comprehensive Guide to its Nutrition

December 16, 2025 •

3 min read

A single medium-sized piece of besan dhokla, approximately 50-55 grams, contains around 152 calories, a figure that can shift depending on specific ingredients and toppings. The steamed nature of this Gujarati delicacy is a primary reason for its relatively low-calorie count compared to many other fried snacks. This makes it a favored option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Quick Summary

The calorie content of Gujarati dhokla depends on its type, preparation, and serving size. While a standard besan dhokla piece contains around 152 calories, variants like khaman and moong dal dhokla can be lower. Factors like oil used in the tempering and added sugar significantly affect the final count.

Key Points

Standard Dhokla Calories: A medium piece of besan dhokla contains about 152 calories, though this number varies by ingredients and portion size.
Khaman vs. Besan: Khaman dhokla, made purely from besan, can be lower in calories (around 60-80 kcal per piece) compared to traditional besan dhokla.
Key Calorie Factors: The biggest variables in dhokla's calorie count are the amount of oil used in the tempering and any added sugar syrup poured over the top.
Healthy Preparation: Making dhokla at home allows for better control of oil and sugar, making it a healthier snack compared to many instant mixes or fried alternatives.
Nutrient-Rich Profile: Beyond being low-calorie, dhokla is rich in protein and fiber from its lentil or gram flour base and contains probiotics from the fermentation process.
Weight Loss Friendly: Because it is steamed and contains good protein and fiber, dhokla can be a filling and healthy snack option that helps manage appetite.

Understanding the Calories in Gujarati Dhokla

Gujarati dhokla is a steamed savory snack celebrated for its light, spongy texture and tangy flavor. Its calorie content is relatively modest, particularly when compared to deep-fried alternatives. A key factor in its low-calorie status is the steaming process, which avoids the heavy use of oil typically associated with frying. However, the exact calorie count can vary significantly based on the type of dhokla, portion size, and the amount of oil and sugar added during preparation.

Calorie Count by Dhokla Variety

Besan Dhokla: This is the most common variety, made from fermented gram flour (besan). A single medium piece (around 50-55 grams) typically provides about 152 calories. It's a solid source of protein and fiber, promoting satiety.
Khaman Dhokla: Often confused with besan dhokla, khaman is made purely from besan and is known for being lighter and fluffier. Some estimates place its calorie count between 60-80 calories per piece, making it a very low-calorie option. However, some recipes can reach 81 calories per piece.
Khatta Dhokla (White Dhokla): This traditional variant uses a fermented batter of rice and urad dal. A serving of six small pieces (16 grams each) contains approximately 128 calories. While carb-rich due to the rice, it is still a healthy option when consumed in moderation.
Moong Dal Dhokla: Made from moong dal (yellow lentils), this is another high-protein option. It generally contains fewer calories, ranging from 90 to 110 calories per piece, according to different sources.

Factors Influencing Calorie Content

Several elements can alter the final calorie count of a plate of dhokla:

The Tempering (Tadka): The amount of oil used for the tempering, which includes mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, can significantly increase the calorie count. Reducing the oil can make a substantial difference.
Added Sugar: Some recipes, particularly for khaman, involve pouring a sugar syrup over the finished dhokla to enhance the sweet-tangy flavor. This adds empty calories that can be easily avoided.
Instant Mixes: While convenient, instant dhokla mixes often contain added sugars, preservatives, and higher levels of sodium compared to a homemade version.
Serving Size and Portion Control: Moderation is key. While a single piece might be low in calories, consuming multiple pieces can add up quickly. Sticking to 1-3 pieces per snack is recommended for those watching their weight.

How to Make a Healthier Dhokla

For those looking to maximize dhokla's health benefits, here are some tips:

Reduce Oil: Use a minimal amount of oil for the tempering or opt for a simple garnish of coriander and coconut.
Skip the Sugar Syrup: The natural tang from fermentation and citrus is often enough. Avoid adding extra sugar syrup.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach or carrots into the batter to boost fiber and nutrient content.
Use Whole-Grain Flours: Experiment with adding whole-grain flours like ragi or millet to increase dietary fiber.
Homemade is Best: Prepare dhokla at home to have complete control over the ingredients, especially salt, oil, and sugar content.

Nutritional Comparison: Dhokla vs. Popular Indian Snacks


Snack Item	Cooking Method	Typical Calories per Serving	Main Benefits
Dhokla	Steamed	60-152 (depending on type)	Low-calorie, high protein, fermented
Samosa	Deep-fried	~260-310 (per piece)	Flavorful, but high in fat and calories
Pakora	Deep-fried	~200-250 (per serving)	High in fat and calories, often fried
Khandvi	Rolled & Steamed	~130-150 (per serving)	Low-calorie, made from besan, steamed
Idli	Steamed	~50-60 (per piece)	Very low-calorie, fermented, high-carb

Conclusion

While a definitive single number for dhokla calories is elusive due to ingredient variations, its reputation as a healthy, low-calorie snack is well-deserved. Prepared traditionally through steaming and fermentation, it offers a nutritious alternative to fried snacks, providing protein, fiber, and gut-friendly probiotics. By being mindful of portion sizes and controlling the amount of oil and sugar, Gujarati dhokla can be a flavorful and health-conscious addition to any diet. For those on a weight loss journey, it stands as a guilt-free indulgence that doesn't compromise on taste.

For more healthy Indian recipes, you can find a list of nutritious dhokla options that support a weight loss diet Dhokla For Weight Loss: 5 Recipes To Make Your Diet Fun and Exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, dhokla is generally good for weight loss because it is steamed, not fried, making it low in calories. It is also high in protein and fiber, which helps promote a feeling of fullness and aids in appetite control.

The calorie count for dhokla depends on the ingredients. For a basic version, you can estimate based on a standard piece, but for a precise figure, you would need to calculate the calories from each ingredient, including the oil for tempering and any added sugar.

Khaman dhokla is often lower in calories than traditional besan dhokla. Because khaman is made from besan alone and is specifically noted for its light texture, its calorie count can be as low as 60-80 calories per piece, though recipes vary.

The main factors are the amount of oil used for the tempering (tadka), any added sugar syrup, the use of instant mixes, and the specific type of flour (besan, moong dal, or rice and urad dal).

Dhokla can be a suitable snack for people with diabetes when eaten in moderation. Its low glycemic index helps control blood sugar levels. It's best to avoid any added sugar syrups and pair it with a protein source for a balanced meal.

Yes, homemade dhokla is generally healthier. You have full control over the amount of oil, salt, and sugar added. Store-bought and instant mixes often contain higher amounts of sodium and preservatives.

To lower calories, use minimal oil for the tempering or skip it altogether, avoid adding sugar syrup, use a nutritious moong dal or besan base, and control your portion sizes.