CRACKED WHOLE WHEAT CALLED DHALIA

Dahlia is cracked wheat just like steel cut oats. It is called bulgur in middle eastern countries. It’s available in Indian supermarkets. It is one of the most healthy dish for breakfast i can think of. Not only adults but even my little grand children love it. It comes in 3 different forms, the medium cut is best for making dahlia.

¾ cup cracked wheat
2 tbsp olive oil or canola oil
½ cup chopped onions
½ tsp finely chopped ginger
½ cup frozen peas
½ cup fresh corn kernels from the cob (or sweet frozen corn)
½ tsp salt or to taste
1-2 tbsp raisins
½ cup water
Freshly ground black pepper
Cilantro leaves to garnish

Soak cracked wheat (dhalia) in water for half an hour, wash with a few changes of water, drain and keep aside.

Heat the oil in a nonstick skillet on medium heat, sauté onions and ginger for 3-4 minutes or until onions are translucent. Add peas, corn and sauté for couple of more minutes.

Add cracked wheat (dahlia) and salt, cook with onion mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add raisins and water, cover the skillet and bring the heat to low and let it cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring in between or until grain gets softer and water is absorbed. Fluff it with fork. Sprinkle with freshly ground pepper and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with tomato chutney or yogurt.

VARIATIONS

BULGUR

Bulgur is also whole wheat that has been cooked and cracked. This is the one used in the middle eastern dish called Tabbouleh. This can be eaten just after being soaked in hot water or can be cooked also.

Cracked whole wheat cooked in milk makes a very good porridge, just like oatmeal.