Savory Semolina Upma with Coconut Garnish
Delight in a warm and comforting bowl of Savory Semolina Upma, a traditional Indian breakfast that’s both hearty and nutritious. This dish is made with semolina, tempered with mustard seeds and mixed with a vibrant array of vegetables, creating a colorful and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekends, this upma is garnished with fresh grated coconut for an extra touch of richness. Serve it with chutney or pickles for added zest!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mustard seeds
1 teaspoon (whole)
Oil
3 tablespoons (for cooking)
Channa dal
1 1/2 teaspoons (whole)
Urad Dal
1 teaspoon (whole)
Onions
2 (peeled, washed, and finely chopped)
Semolina
1 cup (sooji)
Green chili
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Fresh ginger
2 inches (washed and finely chopped)
Cumin seed
1 teaspoon (whole)
Curry leaves
8-10 (whole)
Carrot
1 medium size (diced)
Salt
1 1/4 teaspoons (to taste)
Water
2 cups (for cooking)
Grated coconut
2-3 tablespoons (to garnish (optional))
Instructions
1
In a spacious wok or frying pan, heat the oil over medium flame for about a minute.
2
Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds.
3
Next, add the channa dal and urad dal, stirring until they turn golden brown.
4
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly caramelized.
5
Stir in the semolina gradually, toasting it in the mixture until it turns a light golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
6
Incorporate the chopped green chili, ginger, cumin seeds, curry leaves, diced carrot, and salt into the mixture, mixing thoroughly.
7
Pour in the water and stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
8
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 10 minutes until the water is absorbed and the semolina is fluffy.
9
Remove from heat and fluff the upma with a fork. Serve garnished with grated coconut if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Semolina Upma?
Savory Semolina Upma is a traditional Indian breakfast dish made with toasted semolina, tempered spices, and vegetables.
Is this Upma recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is classified as vegetarian.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 2 servings.
What is the main ingredient used in this dish?
The primary ingredient is 1 cup of semolina, also known as sooji.
How long should I toast the semolina?
The semolina should be toasted in the mixture for approximately 5-7 minutes until it turns a light golden brown.
Can I add vegetables to this Upma?
Yes, the recipe specifically includes diced carrot and onions, and you can add a vibrant array of other vegetables as well.
What is the ratio of water to semolina for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of water for 1 cup of semolina.
Why is it important to toast the semolina?
Toasting the semolina adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent the upma from becoming sticky.
What spices are used for tempering in this recipe?
The tempering involves mustard seeds, cumin seeds, green chili, ginger, and curry leaves.
Is the coconut garnish required?
No, the grated coconut is an optional garnish for an extra touch of richness.
What can I serve with Savory Semolina Upma?
It is recommended to serve the upma with chutney or pickles for added zest.
How do I prevent lumps from forming in the Upma?
Pour in the water gradually and stir continuously to ensure no lumps are created.
What role do Channa dal and Urad dal play?
These dals provide a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor when stirred until golden brown.
How long does the Upma need to simmer?
After adding the water and bringing it to a boil, reduce the heat and let it cook covered for 10 minutes.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the heat level by adding more finely chopped green chili.
Is fresh ginger necessary?
The recipe uses 2 inches of washed and finely chopped fresh ginger to provide a zesty aroma and flavor.
What type of onions are recommended?
The recipe calls for 2 onions that are peeled, washed, and finely chopped.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, although fresh diced carrot is mentioned, frozen peas or mixed vegetables can be used as a convenient substitute.
What should I do after the water is absorbed?
Once the water is absorbed and the semolina is fluffy, remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
What is the purpose of mustard seeds?
Mustard seeds are added to hot oil to crackle, which releases their unique flavor into the base of the dish.
Is Upma suitable for a quick morning meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and healthy meal, making it ideal for busy mornings.
What are curry leaves?
Curry leaves are aromatic herbs used in Indian cooking to add a distinct savory fragrance.
Can I use olive oil for this recipe?
While the recipe suggests 3 tablespoons of oil, you can use any cooking oil, including olive oil, though it may slightly alter the traditional flavor.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a hearty and nutritious meal featuring semolina and fresh vegetables.
Is semolina gluten-free?
No, semolina is made from durum wheat and contains gluten.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container and reheated with a splash of water to restore moisture.
How do I know when the dals are cooked?
The channa dal and urad dal are ready when they turn a distinct golden brown color in the hot oil.
What does fluffing with a fork do?
Fluffing separates the grains of semolina, ensuring the upma has a light and airy texture rather than being a dense block.
What heat setting should I use for simmering?
The recipe recommends reducing the heat to low once the water has been added and the mixture is covered.
Is this a spicy dish?
It has a mild kick from the green chili and ginger, but it is generally balanced and savory.