Easy Dalia Recipe – Traditional Broken Wheat Dessert with Jaggery & Nuts

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Dalia Recipe – Traditional Broken Wheat Dessert with Jaggery & Nuts

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s close to my heart – a comforting, sweet dalia (broken wheat) dessert. It’s a dish my grandmother used to make, and the aroma always filled the house with warmth. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in, or even a festive treat. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dalia recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl! It’s wonderfully simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Plus, it’s a healthier sweet treat option, packed with fiber and nutrients. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the delightful, slightly nutty flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dalia:

• 1 cup broken wheat (dalia) – about 170g
• 3-4 tbsp ghee – about 42-56ml
• ½ cup jaggery or sugar – about 100-120g
• 2 cups water – about 475ml
• ½ tsp cardamom powder – about 2.5g
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds and cashews – about 15-20g

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Broken Wheat (Dalia) Varieties

There are a few types of dalia available. You can use the regular broken wheat or the bulgar wheat variety. I prefer the regular one for this dessert as it gives a slightly softer texture.

Ghee: Choosing the Right Kind

Ghee is essential for that authentic flavor. Use a good quality ghee – the aroma makes a huge difference! If you’re new to ghee, it’s clarified butter, and you can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

Jaggery vs. Sugar: Flavor & Health Benefits

Jaggery (gur) adds a beautiful caramel-like flavor that I absolutely adore. It’s also considered healthier than refined sugar. However, sugar works perfectly fine if you don’t have jaggery on hand.

Cardamom: The Queen of Spices

Cardamom powder is a must! It adds a lovely fragrance and warmth. Freshly ground cardamom is even better if you have the pods.

Nuts: Regional Preferences & Substitutions

Almonds and cashews are classic, but feel free to experiment! Pistachios, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of raisins would be lovely. My aunt always adds a few chopped pecans – delicious!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. First, heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add the broken wheat (dalia) and roast it, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and smells wonderfully nutty – about 5-7 minutes. This step is key for developing the flavor!
3. Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dalia is soft and has absorbed all the water.
4. Now, add the jaggery or sugar and stir until it’s completely dissolved. The mixture will start to thicken as the sugar melts.
5. Finally, stir in the cardamom powder and mix well. Garnish with the sliced almonds and cashews.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this dalia recipe even better.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

You want the dalia to be soft and creamy, but not mushy. Adjust the cooking time and water amount accordingly.

Preventing Sticking & Burning

Keep stirring while roasting the dalia! A heavy-bottomed pan also helps prevent sticking.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

Taste as you go! Add more jaggery or sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert.

Roasting the Dalia for Maximum Flavor

Don’t skip the roasting step! It really brings out the nutty flavor of the dalia.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas!

Vegan Dalia Recipe

Simply substitute the ghee with coconut oil or any other plant-based oil.

Gluten-Free Considerations

Dalia is naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure it hasn’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.

Spice Level Adjustments (Adding Saffron, Nutmeg)

A pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk adds a beautiful color and aroma. A tiny grating of nutmeg also complements the cardamom beautifully.

Festival Adaptations (Lohri, Makar Sankranti)

During Lohri and Makar Sankranti, I often add a little bit of sesame seeds (til) to the dalia for extra warmth and flavor.

Savory Dalia Variation

My friend loves making a savory version with sautéed vegetables and spices – it’s a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

This dalia is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A glass of cold milk
• Kadhi (yogurt-based curry) and rice – a classic combination!
• A dollop of yogurt

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. You might need to add a splash of water or milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best type of dalia to use for this recipe?

Regular broken wheat (dalia) works best for a softer texture, but bulgar wheat is also a good option.

Can I make this recipe with brown sugar instead of jaggery?

Yes, brown sugar will work, but it won’t have the same caramel-like flavor as jaggery.

How can I make the dalia more creamy?

Add a tablespoon of milk or cream while cooking.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead and reheat it.

What is the traditional significance of dalia in Indian cuisine?

Dalia is considered a wholesome and nourishing food, often given to babies and those recovering from illness. It’s also a popular winter dish for its warming properties.

Is dalia good for weight loss?

Yes! It’s high in fiber, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied.