Idli Upma Recipe – A Quick South Indian Breakfast Delight
Idli, the beloved soft and spongy steamed rice cakes, are a staple in South Indian households. Sometimes, though, we have leftover idlis, and what better way to transform them than into a hearty and delicious Idli Upma? This simple, flavorful dish is perfect for breakfast, offering a perfect blend of spices and textures. Whether you have leftover idlis or just feel like trying something new with fresh ones, this easy-to-make upma is sure to become a favorite.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Breakfast
Diet: Gluten-Free
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2-3 people
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Idli | 10 idlis |
| Small onions | 10, peeled and finely chopped |
| Green chillies | 3, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, grated |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| White urad dal | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 6, finely chopped |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Coriander leaves | 2 sprigs, finely chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Idlis: Start by cutting the idlis into small pieces, either by hand or with a fork. This will help them absorb all the flavors as they cook.
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Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them pop for about 10 seconds.
-
Add Urad Dal: Now, toss in 1 teaspoon of white urad dal and cook until it turns golden brown. This will bring a nutty aroma to the dish.
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Saute the Aromatics: Add the finely chopped 10 small onions, grated 1 inch of ginger, 3 chopped green chillies, and 6 finely chopped curry leaves. Sauté this mixture until the onions turn soft and translucent.
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Spices & Idli: Once the onions are soft, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and stir well. Add the cut-up idli pieces to the pan and mix everything together gently. Ensure the idli absorbs all the spices and turns slightly golden.
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Season: Add salt to taste and stir the mixture so that the flavors are evenly distributed.
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Finishing Touches: Once the upma is cooked, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and give it one final mix.
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Serve: Turn off the heat and serve your delicious Idli Upma immediately. For an added treat, pair it with a fruit bowl and a cup of masala tea to complete the breakfast experience.
Tips for Perfect Idli Upma:
- Leftover Idlis: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover idlis, but fresh ones can also be used. Simply crumble them into smaller pieces.
- Adjust Spice Level: You can adjust the quantity of green chillies based on your spice preference.
- Add Vegetables: For an added nutritional boost, feel free to throw in some finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers while sautéing the onions.
Idli Upma is a wholesome, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of South India with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic way to start your day and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this dish is sure to please everyone with its simple yet mouthwatering appeal!
