What is the chemical reaction of Eno (fruit salt) with the Dhokla batter that causes it to rise?

Question

What is the chemical reaction of Eno (fruit salt) in Dhokla batter? Understand the science that causes the instant rise and creates its spongy texture.

Answer 1

Eno reacts with the acids in the Dhokla batter, producing carbon dioxide gas. This gas gets trapped within the batter, causing it to rise and become spongy.

Detailed Explanation:

Eno fruit salt primarily contains sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), also known as baking soda, and citric acid. When Eno is added to the Dhokla batter, which already contains acidic ingredients like yogurt or lemon juice, a chemical reaction occurs. The sodium bicarbonate reacts with the acid in the batter in the presence of water. This reaction produces carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, water (H₂O), and a sodium salt. The carbon dioxide gas is what causes the Dhokla batter to rise. The gas bubbles get trapped within the batter's structure, creating a light and airy texture. The heat from steaming or baking further expands these gas bubbles, resulting in a fluffy and spongy Dhokla. The overall reaction can be simplified as:

Sodium Bicarbonate + Acid → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Sodium Salt

Pro Tip:

Add Eno to the Dhokla batter just before steaming or baking. If you add it too early, the carbon dioxide gas will escape before the batter sets, resulting in a flat and dense Dhokla.