Broken Wheat Dalia Recipe – Jaggery & Saffron Sweet Treat

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Broken Wheat Dalia Recipe – Jaggery & Saffron Sweet Treat

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of sweet dalia, isn’t there? This broken wheat dalia recipe is a hug in a bowl – subtly sweet, wonderfully fragrant, and incredibly nourishing. I remember my grandmother making this for me on chilly winter mornings, and the aroma of saffron always filled the house. It’s a simple dish, but packed with flavour and tradition. I’m so excited to share this family favourite with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another sweet dish; it’s a little piece of home. It’s quick to make (ready in under 30 minutes!), incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a cozy breakfast, a light dessert, or even a comforting snack. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of broken wheat. You’ll love how easily it comes together and the beautiful golden hue the saffron lends to it.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dalia:

• 3 tbsp ghee (approximately 45ml)
• ?? inch cinnamon stick
• 2 cardamom pods
• 2 cloves
• ?? cup broken wheat (daliya) – about 170g
• 2 cups water (480ml)
• ?? cup jaggery – about 150g (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp ghee (approximately 15ml)
• 2 tbsp cashew (approximately 30g)
• 2 tbsp almonds (approximately 30g)
• 2 tbsp raisins (approximately 20g)
• ?? tsp cardamom powder – about ¼ tsp
• Few saffron strands

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Ghee is key here. It adds a richness and flavour that’s just unmatched. Don’t skimp! You can use unsalted butter as a substitute, but ghee really elevates the dish.

Now, about the broken wheat, or daliya. It’s a whole grain, and a fantastic source of fibre. You can find it easily in most Indian grocery stores, or online.

Jaggery is traditional in this recipe, and I highly recommend it. It has a lovely caramel-like flavour that’s different from refined sugar. However, you can use sugar if you prefer (more on that in the FAQs!). In some regions, especially in North India, people also use a combination of sugar and jaggery for a balanced sweetness.

And finally, saffron! A little goes a long way. It adds a beautiful colour and a delicate floral aroma. Don’t be afraid to use good quality saffron – it makes all the difference.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of ghee in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Once melted, add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant – you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
2. Add the broken wheat (daliya) to the cooker and roast on low heat for about 5 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and to ensure it’s evenly roasted. You’ll notice a lovely nutty aroma.
3. Pour in 2 cups of hot water, give everything a good mix, and close the pressure cooker. Cook for 5 whistles on medium heat.
4. Once the pressure has released naturally, open the cooker. Add the jaggery and another ½ cup of water. Mix well until the jaggery is completely dissolved.
5. Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. While the dalia is simmering, let’s roast the nuts! In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the cashews, almonds, and raisins. Roast until golden brown and fragrant – keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
7. Stir the roasted nuts and a pinch of cardamom powder into the cooked wheat mixture.
8. Garnish with a few saffron strands and serve warm. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Texture is key: If you prefer a creamier dalia, add a little more water during the pressure cooking stage. For a thicker consistency, simmer for a longer time.
• Preventing sticking: Stir frequently while roasting the daliya and simmering the mixture to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the cooker or pan.
• Sweetness adjustment: Taste the dalia after the jaggery has dissolved and add more jaggery if needed. Remember, a little goes a long way!

Variations

My friend, Priya, loves adding a sprinkle of nutmeg to her dalia – it adds a lovely warmth. You could also try adding a tablespoon of grated coconut for a tropical twist. My family sometimes adds a tiny pinch of black pepper for a subtle kick!

Vegan Adaptation

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the ghee with a plant-based oil like coconut oil or sunflower oil. The flavour will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Gluten-Free Considerations

Good news! Broken wheat (daliya) is naturally gluten-free. However, if you have a severe gluten intolerance, it’s important to check the packaging to ensure it hasn’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten-containing grains. Cross-contamination can occur.

Spice Level

This recipe is inherently mild, which makes it perfect for all ages. If you like a little warmth, you can add a pinch of ginger powder or a tiny bit of cinnamon powder along with the other spices.

Festival Adaptations

This sweet dalia is a popular dish during Makar Sankranti and Lohri, festivals celebrated with warmth and sweetness. It’s a wonderful way to share the joy of the season with loved ones.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dalia warm, on its own as a comforting breakfast or dessert. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of warm milk or a cup of masala chai.

Storage Instructions

Leftover dalia can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. What is broken wheat (daliya) and where can I find it? Broken wheat, or daliya, is a whole grain made from durum wheat. It’s a good source of fibre and nutrients. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores, health food stores, or online.
2. Can I use sugar instead of jaggery in this recipe? Yes, you can! While jaggery adds a unique flavour, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sugar.
3. How do I adjust the sweetness level to my preference? Start with the amount of jaggery specified in the recipe and taste after it has dissolved. Add more jaggery, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness.
4. Can this be made in an Instant Pot? Absolutely! Use the same ingredients and instructions, but cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
5. What is the best way to roast the nuts for optimal flavor? Roast the nuts in ghee over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
6. Can I add other dry fruits to this recipe? Definitely! Feel free to add chopped dates, figs, or pistachios along with the cashews, almonds, and raisins.