Oats Upma

0
4

Oats Upma is a healthy and delicious twist on the traditional South Indian upma, typically made with semolina. This version uses oats, making it a fiber-rich, nutritious breakfast or light meal option. Oats upma is quick to prepare and loaded with vegetables, giving it vibrant colors and a wholesome balance of nutrients. The aromatic spices, along with the crunch of peanuts and the tang of lemon juice, bring a perfect harmony of flavors to this dish. It’s a great way to enjoy a filling, guilt-free meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • 1 small carrot, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 8-10 curry leaves
  • ¼ cup peanuts (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Dry roast the oats: Heat a pan over medium heat and dry roast the oats for 2-3 minutes until they turn slightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Prepare the tempering: In the same pan, heat the oil or ghee. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Then, add the curry leaves and peanuts (if using) and sauté for a minute.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green chili, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Next, add the chopped carrot, peas, and turmeric powder. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
  4. Cook the oats: Add 1 ½ cups of water to the pan and bring it to a boil. Add salt to taste. Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low and stir in the roasted oats. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oats absorb the water and become soft.
  5. Add lemon and garnish: Once the oats are cooked, turn off the heat and add the lemon juice. Mix well. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Serve your Oats Upma hot, accompanied by chutney or yogurt, for a satisfying and healthy meal!