Haryanvi Meetha Dalia Sweet Broken Wheat Porridge

Method

1. 1

   What is dalia: Dalia (also called daliya or broken wheat) is wheat grain that has been coarsely cracked or broken into pieces. It is available at Indian stores and looks like coarse tan-coloured grains. It is very nutritious, high in fibre, and easier to digest than whole wheat. Do not confuse it with semolina (sooji) which is finer and processed differently.

2. 2

   Dry roast the dalia: Heat a pot on medium heat without any oil or ghee. Add 1 cup dalia to the dry pot. Roast, stirring continuously, for 3 to 4 minutes until the dalia turns a shade darker and smells slightly nutty and toasted. This roasting enhances the flavour significantly. Remove from the pot and set aside.

3. 3

   Heat ghee and fry dry fruits: In the same pot, heat 1 tbsp ghee on medium heat. Add the broken cashews and fry for 1 minute until golden. Add the raisins and fry for 30 seconds until they puff up. Remove and set aside.

4. 4

   Add the roasted dalia: To the pot with the remaining ghee, add the roasted dalia. Stir for 1 minute.

5. 5

   Add water first: Pour 1 cup water into the pot. Stir. Bring to a boil on medium heat. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes — starting with water helps the dalia begin cooking without scorching the milk.

6. 6

   Add milk: Pour 3 cups full-fat milk into the pot. Stir well. Bring to a boil on medium heat, stirring frequently.

7. 7

   Simmer until thick: Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes, until the dalia is completely soft and the mixture has thickened to a porridge consistency. The dalia grains should be tender and swollen.

8. 8

   Add jaggery: Add 1/3 cup grated or powdered jaggery. Stir until it dissolves completely. The colour will change from white to a pale brown.

9. 9

   Add cardamom and dry fruits: Add 1/2 tsp cardamom powder and the fried cashews and raisins. Stir gently.

10. 10

    Serve hot: Pour into bowls and serve immediately. Meetha dalia thickens significantly as it cools — if reheating, add a little warm milk and stir.