Delicious Rava Upma with Peanuts, Peas, and Sweet Corn: A Flavorful South Indian Breakfast

Rava Upma Recipe with Peanuts, Peas & Corn

This delightful South Indian breakfast dish, known as Rava Upma, combines the nutritious goodness of semolina with the crunchy texture of peanuts, the sweetness of corn, and the vibrant flavors of green peas. Ideal for a filling breakfast or a light snack, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Let’s delve into the ingredients, preparation, and cooking instructions to create a scrumptious bowl of Rava Upma.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Instructions

To prepare this delightful Rava Upma, follow these detailed steps, ensuring to savor the aromas and flavors that develop throughout the cooking process:

1. Roast the Semolina: Begin by placing the semolina (सूजी) in a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously as it cooks, toasting it until it turns a light golden brown. This process will enhance the nutty flavor of the semolina. Be vigilant to prevent burning, as this can impart a bitter taste. Once toasted, remove it from the heat and transfer to a bowl.

2. Prepare the Peanuts: In the same pan, add half a teaspoon of ghee (घी) and allow it to melt. Incorporate the peanuts (मूंगफली) and sauté them over low heat until they become lightly browned and fragrant, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, remove the peanuts from the pan and set aside in a bowl.

3. Boil the Water: In a separate saucepan, pour in 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil. This will be added to the upma to cook the semolina.

4. Temper the Spices: While the water is boiling, heat the remaining ghee in the same pan. Add the mustard seeds (राइ) and allow them to crackle. Once they start sizzling, introduce the cumin seeds (जीरा) and white urad dal (सफेद उरद दाल), sautéing until they turn golden brown.

5. Cook the Aromatics: Next, add the chopped onion (प्याज) to the pan and cook until they soften and turn translucent. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Then add the curry leaves (कढ़ी पत्ता), chopped green chilies (हरी मिर्च), grated ginger (अदरक), and half of the roasted peanuts, stirring everything together for about a minute.

6. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped tomatoes (टमाटर) and cook until they soften, around another minute. Then incorporate the green peas (हरी मटर), sweet corn (स्वीट कॉर्न), red chili powder (लाल मिर्च पाउडर), coriander powder (धनिया पाउडर), and salt (नमक) to taste. Mix well and allow it to cook for 3 to 4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

7. Combine Semolina and Water: Gently fold in the toasted semolina, ensuring it is well mixed with the vegetables. Slowly pour in the boiling water, continuously stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring for about 3 to 4 minutes until the semolina absorbs the water and cooks to a fluffy consistency.

8. Finish and Serve: Once the upma reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice (निम्बू का रस) and mix thoroughly. Garnish with the remaining chopped coriander (हरा धनिया) and a few pomegranate seeds (अनार) for a burst of color and flavor.

9. Serving Suggestions: Serve your steaming bowl of Rava Upma with coconut chutney for an authentic South Indian experience, and enjoy it with a hot cup of filter coffee, making it a perfect breakfast that is both satisfying and wholesome.

This Rava Upma recipe not only satisfies hunger but also fills your plate with a colorful medley of vegetables, providing essential nutrients in a delightful and tasty way. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic dish with family and friends, and bring a taste of South India to your breakfast table!