Golden Masala Upma Delight
This dish is a creative twist on the traditional South Indian upma, infused with aromatic spices and vibrant golden hues of turmeric. It’s packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition—a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
Base:
- 1 cup semolina (rava)
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
Spices and Aromatics:
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 tbsp finely chopped ginger
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 10-12 curry leaves
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
Liquid:
- 2 1/2 cups water
- Salt to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- Grated coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Semolina:
- Heat a pan and dry-roast the semolina on low-medium heat until it turns golden and releases a nutty aroma. Keep stirring to avoid burning. Set aside.
- Prepare the Golden Masala Base:
- Heat ghee in the same pan.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter, followed by cumin seeds.
- Stir in ginger, green chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté until aromatic.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Toss in carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Spice it Up:
- Add turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Simmer with Water:
- Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Adjust salt to taste.
- Gradually add the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Lower the heat and cook until the semolina absorbs all the water, becoming soft and fluffy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Turn off the heat and mix in the lemon juice, roasted peanuts or cashews, and fresh coriander.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated coconut if desired.
Tips:
- Add a pinch of sugar for a subtle sweetness that balances the spices.
- You can include more vegetables like beans or corn for a hearty version.
- To make it vegan, replace ghee with coconut or vegetable oil.
Enjoy your Golden Masala Upma Delight—a wholesome dish that’s rich in flavor and nutrition! 🌟
Read another recipe:
Samosa breakfast