Khapli wheat, also known as Emmer wheat, is gaining popularity again as more people are turning towards ancient grains for better nutrition. However, not all khapli wheat products are the same. From whole berries to broken daliya and stone-ground atta, the type of khapli wheat you choose can make a big difference in taste, cooking style, and health benefits. This guide explains the different types of khapli wheat available in India, how regional growing conditions affect quality, and what to look for on labels so you can choose the right one for your kitchen. Dive deeper to know more.
There’s a growing awareness around gut health, blood sugar balance, and traditional diets, and khapli wheat is reclaiming its place in Indian kitchens because of this. This grain was once widely consumed across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and parts of Gujarat. But it saw a decline in the early 2000s because it was harder to harvest and produced lower yields than modern wheat. Today, that very difference is making the khapli wheat special.
Khapli wheat is naturally low in gluten, has a lower glycaemic index, and contains higher amounts of fibre and protein compared to refined wheat. But buying Khapli wheat can be confusing. It is sold in different forms, sourced from different regions, and processed in different ways. Once you understand these variations, you can choose a product that fits your cooking habits, dietary needs, and lifestyle without having to have technical knowledge about it. Read this article to know more about the types of khapli wheat and which one you should buy.
Whole khapli wheat berries are the least processed form of this grain. They retain the bran, germ, and endosperm intact, which means they offer more fibre and nutrition. This type of khapli wheat is commonly used for slow-cooking dishes such as porridges, salads, or pressure-cooked grain bowls. Since khapli has a hard outer shell, whole berries take longer to cook and require soaking. They have a chewy texture and a mild, nutty taste. This type is ideal for people who want hearty, grain-forward meals and are fine with long preparation time.
Khapli daliya is made by breaking whole khapli wheat into coarse pieces. This makes it easier and quicker to cook while retaining the grain’s nutritional value. It is commonly used for khichdi-style dishes, upma, or savoury porridge. This type of khapli wheat works well for everyday meals, especially for those transitioning from refined grains to whole grains. It has a good balance between convenience and nutrition, and is suitable for families as well as older adults.
Khapli atta is the most popular and practical option for daily cooking. It is traditionally stone-ground, and it retains the grain’s natural fibre and nutrients while being easy to use for rotis, bhakris, and even dosas. A reliable option here is Aashirvaad Namma Chakki 100% Khapli Atta, which is made using carefully selected Khapli wheat grains. Khapli has a rich agricultural history and today forms only about 1% of total wheat production in India. It is grown mainly in Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka, and parts of Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh.
This atta stands out because it preserves the natural qualities of khapli wheat while making it accessible for modern kitchens. It is rich in dietary fibre, with three chapatis providing around 34% of your daily fibre requirement, which supports digestion. It is also a good source of protein, offering nearly 23% of the recommended daily protein intake in three chapatis, supporting muscle health.
In addition, it provides the combined goodness of protein, fibre, iron, and vitamin B1, which supports energy metabolism. It is naturally low in sugars, low in fat, low in saturated fat, and free from trans-fat, making it suitable for people looking to manage blood sugar levels or adopt a balanced diet.
Khapli wheat grown in different regions varies in taste, colour, and texture. Khapli wheat grown in Maharashtra is often darker and more robust in flavour, while Karnataka varieties are lighter. These differences are because of the soil conditions, rainfall, and traditional farming practices. When buying khapli wheat, it is important to know its source, as that can help you understand how it will behave during cooking. Regionally sourced products follow traditional processing methods, which helps preserve the grain’s original qualities.
Many consumers look for organic khapli wheat, but certification is more important than mere claims. Always check for recognised organic labels rather than relying on packaging language alone. Organic khapli wheat is grown without synthetic fertilisers or pesticides, which appeals to those following clean-eating or traditional diets. Apart from organic certification, also look for clear information on grain type, processing method, and storage instructions. Freshly milled or well-packaged atta retains flavour and nutrients better.
The right type of khapli wheat depends on how you plan to use it. While whole berries are ideal for slow-cooked meals, daliya is best for everyday comfort food, and atta works best for rotis and bhakris. For most households, stone-ground Khapli atta is the easiest way to include this ancient grain in daily meals without changing cooking habits drastically.
Khapli wheat is not a trend but a return to food wisdom that has sustained generations. Once you understand the different forms available in the market, you can make informed choices that suit your lifestyle and health goals. Whether you choose whole grains, daliya, or a trusted option like Aashirvaad Namma Chakki 100% Khapli Atta, the key is consistency. Including khapli wheat regularly will help you build a diet that is nourishing, balanced, and rooted in tradition.