Ingredients
Main
- 1 cup broken wheat (dalia)
- 2½ cups water
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- ½ cup carrot, chopped
- ½ cup green peas
- ¼ cup beans, chopped
- ¼ cup capsicum, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 green cardamom
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chilli, chopped
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
Instructions
- Roast Dalia: Dry roast broken wheat on low flame until aromatic. Keep aside.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil or ghee in a pressure cooker or deep pan.
- Add Whole Spices: Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Sauté briefly.
- Add Cumin & Onion: Add cumin seeds and sliced onions. Cook until onions turn light golden.
- Add Aromatics: Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilli. Sauté till raw smell disappears.
- Add Vegetables: Add all chopped vegetables, turmeric, and salt. Mix well.
- Add Dalia & Water: Add roasted dalia and water. Mix, cover, and cook until dalia is soft.
- Serve: Sprinkle garam masala and coriander leaves. Serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in fibre and nutrients
- Light yet filling
- Perfect for weight-conscious meals
- One-pot easy recipe
- Customisable with vegetables
Expert Tips:
- Roast dalia well for better texture
- Use fresh seasonal vegetables
- Adjust water for softer or grainy texture
- Cook on low flame after adding water
- Use ghee for better aroma if not vegan
Common Mistakes
- Skipping dalia roasting
- Adding too much water
- Overcooking vegetables
- Using high heat throughout
Variations
Protein Boost: Add soaked moong dal.
No Onion: Skip onion for satvik version.
South Indian: Add curry leaves and mustard seeds.
Personal Note
Dalia pulao is one of my favourite comfort meals when I want something light yet nourishing. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for days when you want home-style food without heaviness. I often pair it with curd or plain raita.
FAQ
- Is dalia pulao good for weight loss?
- Yes, it is high in fibre and keeps you full longer.
- Can I cook dalia pulao without pressure cooker?
- Yes, it can be cooked in a deep pan with lid.
- Is dalia better than rice?
- Dalia has more fibre and a lower glycaemic index.
- What goes best with dalia pulao?
- Curd, raita, or simple salad pairs well.
Shreya Singh