
Oats Porridge with Milk
Beverages • India
How to Make Oats Porridge with Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Oats Porridge with Milk, or 'Dalia' as it is lovingly called in many Indian households, is a wholesome and nourishing dish perfect for breakfast. Oats have become increasingly popular in India for their health benefits, and this porridge is a modern adaptation of traditional Indian breakfast cereals like wheat dalia. The creamy texture of oats simmered in doodh (milk) and flavored with aromatic cardamom (elaichi) and nuts makes it both comforting and delicious. Oats Porridge is especially favored during winter months and is often served to children and elders for its easily digestible nature. In Indian cuisine, Oats Porridge with Milk is a staple for those seeking a nutritious, vegetarian meal. It’s commonly prepared during festivals like Makar Sankranti, when healthy grains are celebrated, or as a hearty start to the day during Navratri fasting with fruit and nuts. Its mild, creamy taste appeals to all age groups and can be customized with regional flavors such as saffron (kesar) or jaggery (gur) for sweetness. The dish is revered for its simplicity, quick preparation, and ability to keep you full for hours, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or light evening meals. With increasing awareness of health and wellness in India, oats have found their place alongside traditional grains. Oats Porridge with Milk is a great way to add fiber and protein to your diet. It is a versatile recipe, easily adapted to suit weight loss, diabetic, high-protein, or kid-friendly requirements, making it a must-have for every Indian kitchen.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 200 ml per serving))
- 1 cup Rolled oats (Oats (हिन्दी: ओट्स))
- 2 cups Milk (Doodh (preferably low-fat))
- 1 cup Water (For cooking oats)
- 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder (Elaichi)
- 2 tbsp Jaggery powder (Gur (optional, for sweetness)) - optional
- 6-8 Almonds (Badam, sliced)
- 6-8 Cashews (Kaju, chopped)
- 2 tbsp Raisins (Kishmish)
- 1 tsp Ghee (Desi ghee (optional)) - optional
- 4-5 Saffron strands (Kesar (optional, for richness)) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Heat a kadhai (pan) on medium flame and add 1 tsp ghee. Roast the oats for 2-3 minutes until they turn slightly golden and aromatic.
5 minutes
Roasting oats enhances flavor and prevents sogginess.
- 2
Add water to the roasted oats and cook on low flame, stirring occasionally, until the oats absorb the water and become soft.
5 minutes
Use a wooden spatula for even cooking.
- 3
Pour in the milk and continue to cook, stirring gently. Let the mixture simmer until it reaches a creamy consistency.
7 minutes
Add milk gradually for best results.
- 4
Add cardamom powder, jaggery, and saffron strands. Stir well to combine and allow the flavors to infuse.
3 minutes
Jaggery adds a natural sweetness and deeper flavor.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice due to its high fiber content, low saturated fat, and essential vitamins and minerals. Oats help control cholesterol, milk boosts protein intake, and nuts provide sustained energy. The recipe can be easily modified for weight loss or diabetics by omitting jaggery and using skim milk, making it suitable for most Indian diets. Its versatility and easy digestibility make it ideal for breakfast, especially for those aiming to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Oats Porridge with Milk is packed with dietary fiber from oats, supporting digestion and heart health. Milk adds high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamin D for strong bones. Almonds, cashews, and raisins provide healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals like magnesium and iron. Jaggery offers a natural alternative to refined sugar, supplying iron and energy. This balanced blend of macronutrients and micronutrients makes the porridge excellent for overall well-being.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Roast oats lightly for enhanced flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust sweetness naturally with fruits like banana or apple.
- 💡Tip 3: Add saffron (kesar) for festive richness and aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover porridge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |





