Uppuma Recipe (Upma)

 Uppuma Recipe (Upma) – A Spicy Breakfast from South India

Uppuma(Upma) is a popular South Indian breakfast made using semolina (rava or suji). It’s light and flavorful and easy to make, making it the sort of dish that would work for a quick, healthy dinner.

Ingredients:

1 cup semolina (rava/suji)

2 cups water

1 onion, finely chopped

1 green chili, chopped

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon urad dal, optional

1 tsp chana dal (optional)

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/2 tsp salt (to taste)

1 sprig curry leaves

1 tablespoon ghee or oil

1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

8-10 cashew nuts (optional)

1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Juice of 1/2 a lemon

Instructions:

To roast the semolina: In a dry pan, add the semolina and roast on low flame for 3-4 minutes or until just golden. Continue to stir to keep from burning. Transfer to a plate, and set aside.

Make the Tempering: In the same pan, heat the ghee or oil. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Next, add urad dal, chana dal, cashew nuts and sauté till golden.

Fry the Aromatics: Add onion, green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves. Fry till the onions are translucent.

Add Water and Spices: Add 2 cups of water along with turmeric powder and salt and let it gently boil.

To prepare the Uppuma: Reduce flame and gradually sprinkle in the roasted semolina while constantly mixing to keep lumps from forming. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it gets thick and the water gets absorbed completely.

Finishing Up: Switch off the fire, squeeze in lemon juice and mix in chopped coriander leaves.

Serve: Serve uppuma hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or a side of yogurt.

Tips:

For Extra Flavor: Stir in vegetables such as carrots, peas or bell peppers when cooking onions.

For a Softer Texture: Boost water to 2.5 cups for a creamier consistency.

For a spicy kick: Add in more chopped green chilies or sprinkle a little black pepper.

So now you can serve yourself the easy and delicious Uppuma, which makes for a great breakfast or light meal!