Dalda is a household name in the Indian kitchen! An Indian kitchen without having Dalda is something you hardly notice. Dalda is known for its versatility. This is a hydrogenated vegetable oil. Dalda has been an all-rounder ingredient for baking, frying, or cooking for generations. Dalda has a never-before velvety smooth texture, and this is ideal for making all sorts of mouth-watering desserts.
In the world of sweets and snacks, Dalda plays an unavoidable role in achieving the desired texture and taste. From the crispy layers of a Gujiya to the melt-in-the-mouth consistency of Mysore Pak, Dalda ensures that these delicacies are a hit among family and friends. Deep frying, a common technique in traditional Indian snacks and sweets, is a perfect fit for its sturdy nature when heated. Here are a few tasty treats and snacks that you can make with Dalda.
1. Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak, a delightful and sponge-like sweet treat, is everyone's favourite. The delectable flavour becomes dense when combined with Dalda, enriching your heavenly experience. To make Mysore Pak, start by mixing sugar in water and bringing it to a boil. Gradually add chickpea flour (besan), stirring continuously until well incorporated. Next, add Dalda one tablespoon at a time, ensuring it blends smoothly. Once the mixture thickens, set it on a plate to cool. Cut into even pieces and serve hot.
2. Gujiya
Indian festivals are incomplete without the crispy pastry-filled Gujiyas. This treat offers an out-of-the-world experience with its sweet khoya stuffing, dry fruits, and crispy texture, all deep-fried in Dalda. Begin by mixing refined flour and Dalda to make a stiff dough. For the filling, mix khoya, sugar, powdered green cardamom, and almonds. Roll the dough into small balls, fill with the khoya mixture, and seal the edges. Fry the Gujiyas in Dalda until golden brown, then drain and serve hot.
3. Nan Khatai
The delicious taste and crispy texture of Nan Khatai, when cooked in Dalda, make it a favourite snack. To prepare, start by whisking Dalda with powdered sugar until creamy. Add maida, besan, sooji, baking powder, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing well. Before baking for 15 minutes at 180°C, shape the dough into little balls and sprinkle with cashew nuts. Cool the cookies before serving to enjoy their rich flavour and perfect crunch.
4. Cracked Wheat Kheer
A sweet and healthy dessert that is appropriate for every celebration is Cracked Wheat Kheer. Begin by chopping dates and figs, then microwaving them with a little water until mushy. In a pot, boil milk and water, adding cracked wheat, cardamom powder, and the cooked dry fruit mixture. Sweeten with coconut palm sugar and cook until thickened. Garnish with fried cashews and raisins before serving hot or cold.
5. Oats And Moong Dal Tikkis
Oats and Moong Dal Tikkis are a healthy and tasty snack. Start by blending boiled moong dal into a coarse paste. Combine with oats, curd, grated onions, green chillies, chaat masala, chilli powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, ginger-garlic paste, and chopped coriander. Shape the mixture into tikkis and cook on a greased griddle with Dalda until golden brown on both sides. Serve hot with green chutney for a delightful snack.
6. Cheese Dreams
Cheese Dreams is an easy-to-make snack perfect for cheese lovers. Whisk eggs and milk together in a bowl. Dip bread slices in the mixture and cook in a pan with Dalda until golden on both sides. Add a slice of cheese between two pieces of bread to make a sandwich. Serve these cheesy delights with your favourite sauce for a quick and satisfying snack.
Dalda's unique properties make it an essential ingredient in many Indian sweets and snacks. From the richness of Mysore Pak to the crispy delight of Gujiyas and the wholesome goodness of Cracked Wheat Kheer, Dalda enhances the texture and flavour of these treats. Its versatility and reliability ensure that each recipe turns out perfectly, making Dalda a must-have in the kitchen.