Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious breakfast option? Look no further than this Kerala-style Upma recipe! This South Indian staple is packed with flavor, incredibly versatile, and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It's the perfect way to start your day with a wholesome and satisfying meal, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji or rava)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon urad dal (split black lentils)
- 1/2 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1-2 dry red chilies, broken
- A sprig of curry leaves
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, beans – optional)
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water (or more, as needed)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
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Roast the Semolina: In a dry pan, roast the semolina on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until it turns lightly golden and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your Upma. Be careful not to burn it.
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Tempering the Spices: Heat ghee or coconut oil in a separate pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal, chana dal, and dry red chilies. Sauté until the dals turn golden.
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Adding Aromatics: Add curry leaves and chopped onions to the pan. Sauté until the onions soften, about 2-3 minutes. If using vegetables, add them now and sauté until slightly tender.
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Combining and Cooking: Pour the roasted semolina into the pan with the sautéed ingredients. Stir well to combine.
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Adding Water and Simmering: Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Season with salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the Upma is cooked through and has a slightly thick consistency. If it gets too thick, add a little more water.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Serve hot as a delicious and quick dinner idea or a hearty breakfast.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ghee and coconut oil.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or spinach.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of turmeric powder or asafoetida (hing) for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of milk or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Adjust consistency: If you prefer a drier Upma, reduce the amount of water. For a softer texture, use more water.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving made with 1 cup semolina, and nutritional values will vary slightly depending on ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for more personalized information.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
This Kerala-style Upma is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy this flavorful and versatile dish!