Almond-Dal Wheat Porridge Mix Recipe – Traditional Indian Breakfast

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Almond-Dal Wheat Porridge Mix Recipe – Traditional Indian Breakfast

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for healthy, comforting breakfasts that don’t take ages to make. This Almond-Dal Wheat Porridge Mix is a total lifesaver. It’s a recipe passed down from my grandmother, and honestly, it’s been a staple in my family for generations. It’s warm, nourishing, and tastes absolutely divine – especially on a chilly morning. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any porridge. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors, thanks to the combination of wheat, almonds, and lentils. It’s incredibly easy to make the mix ahead of time, meaning a warm, healthy breakfast is always within reach. Plus, it’s naturally quite filling, keeping you energized until lunchtime.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 1 cup wheat flour (approx. 120g)
• ¼ cup almonds (approx. 30g)
• ⅛ cup heaped moong dal (approx. 30g)
• ⅛ cup heaped fried gram dal (approx. 30g)
• 2 tablespoons wheat porridge mix (for making the porridge – approx. 20g)
• ¾ cup water (approx. 180ml)
• 1 tablespoon thin jaggery syrup (approx. 15ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Wheat Flour Varieties & Their Uses

I usually use whole wheat flour (atta) for a slightly nutty flavor and extra fiber. You can also use fine wheat flour (maida) for a smoother texture, but I prefer the heartiness of whole wheat.

The Nutritional Benefits of Moong Dal

Moong dal is a powerhouse of protein and easy to digest – making it perfect for breakfast! It adds a lovely creaminess to the porridge.

Fried Gram Dal (Pottukadalai) – A South Indian Staple

Fried gram dal, or pottukadalai, gives a wonderful, slightly crunchy texture and a unique flavor. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores. Don’t skip this one – it really makes a difference!

Almonds: Choosing Quality & Flavor

I prefer using blanched almonds for a milder flavor, but you can use almonds with the skin on for a more robust taste. Just make sure they’re good quality and smell fresh.

Jaggery Syrup: Regional Variations & Sweetness Levels

Jaggery syrup adds a beautiful caramel-like sweetness. The sweetness level can vary depending on the jaggery, so adjust to your liking. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, but jaggery really gives it that authentic Indian flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking (or rather, roasting and mixing!).

1. First, dry roast the fried gram dal in a pan until it turns golden brown. Set it aside to cool.
2. Next, rinse the moong dal and dry roast it until it’s golden brown too. This step is important for bringing out the flavor! Set aside.
3. Now, roast the almonds until they develop some lovely brown spots. Let them cool completely, then grind them together with the roasted moong dal into a slightly coarse powder.
4. Add the roasted fried gram dal to your mixer jar and grind it into a semi-fine powder.
5. Time for the wheat flour! Dry roast it on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until you notice a slight color change. This removes any moisture and enhances the flavor.
6. Sift the wheat flour and the almond-dal mixture together using a sieve. This ensures everything is evenly combined and gives a lovely, light texture.
7. Finally, store your gorgeous porridge mix in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for weeks!

To make the porridge:

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of the mix with ¾ cup of water and 1 tablespoon of jaggery syrup in a pan.
2. Whisk continuously over low heat for 3-5 minutes, until the porridge thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Serve warm, and if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with a little ghee!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

Achieving the Perfect Porridge Consistency

The key is to whisk constantly! This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy porridge. If it gets too thick, just add a splash more water.

Roasting Techniques for Enhanced Flavor

Don’t rush the roasting process. Low and slow is the way to go. It really brings out the nutty flavors of the dals and almonds.

Storing the Porridge Mix for Maximum Freshness

Make sure your container is completely airtight. Moisture is the enemy! Storing it in a cool, dark place will also help it stay fresh for longer.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Vegan Adaptation

Simply substitute the ghee with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or almond oil.

Gluten-Free Adaptation (Using Alternative Flours)

Swap the wheat flour for gluten-free flours like sorghum flour or millet flour. You might need to adjust the amount of water slightly.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Cardamom or Nutmeg)

A pinch of cardamom or nutmeg adds a lovely warmth and aroma. I sometimes add a tiny bit of cinnamon too!

Festival Adaptations (Makara Sankranti/Lohri Porridge)

During Makara Sankranti or Lohri, my family loves adding sesame seeds and a bit of grated ginger to the porridge for extra warmth and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This porridge is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• A dollop of yogurt
• Fresh fruit (like bananas or berries)
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts

Storage Instructions

The porridge mix will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. Cooked porridge is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the shelf life of this homemade porridge mix?

Stored properly, it should last for 2-3 weeks.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Cashews or walnuts would also be delicious.

Is this porridge mix suitable for babies and young children?

Yes, it is! Just make sure the porridge is cooked to a very smooth consistency and the jaggery syrup is used in moderation. Always check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby.

How can I adjust the sweetness level of the porridge?

Start with less jaggery syrup and add more to taste. You can also use other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

What are the health benefits of consuming this porridge regularly?

This porridge is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a great way to start your day. It’s also a good source of energy and can help improve digestion.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does! Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out. Happy cooking!