Aval Upma Recipe: A Traditional South Indian Breakfast Delight
Aval Upma is a flavorful and nutritious South Indian breakfast dish that combines the lightness of poha (flattened rice) with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a wholesome morning meal, often enjoyed with a hot cup of masala tea and fruits. Whether you’re looking for a comforting start to your day or a savory dish for brunch, Aval Upma offers the perfect balance of taste and health.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (flattened rice) | 2 cups |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (rai) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Split black urad dal | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Fresh ginger (finely chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Roasted peanuts | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh coriander (finely chopped) | 4 sprigs |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Poha:
Start by washing the poha thoroughly under running water. Once washed, drain all excess water from the poha and set it aside. Ensure that the poha remains moist but not too soft or too dry. -
-
Cook the Spices:
In a pan or kadai, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing), 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, and 1 teaspoon of split black urad dal. Sauté these ingredients until the dal turns a golden brown, releasing a fragrant aroma. -
Add Vegetables and Aromatics:
To the pan, add 1 sprig of curry leaves, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 finely chopped green chilies, and 1-inch piece of finely chopped ginger. Cook the mixture until the onions turn soft and translucent. -
Spice it Up:
Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder into the pan, and stir to combine all the spices and vegetables. -
Add Poha:
Add the washed poha to the pan, and mix gently so that the poha is coated with the spices and vegetables. Make sure everything is well combined. -
Let it Cook:
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the poha to cook for 2 to 3 minutes on low heat. This step helps the poha to absorb all the flavors of the spices and vegetables. -
Finishing Touches:
Turn off the heat and drizzle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over the upma. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts and 4 sprigs of finely chopped fresh coriander. -
Serve:
Serve your Aval Upma hot, accompanied by a cup of masala tea and fresh fruits for a complete and satisfying breakfast.
Tips for the Perfect Aval Upma:
- Consistency of Poha: Make sure that the poha is not soaked for too long. A quick rinse under water is enough to soften it, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Peanuts for Crunch: Roasting the peanuts adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the upma. If you prefer, you can also add cashews or almonds for variation.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of green chilies or omit them altogether. You can also adjust the salt and lemon juice to taste.
- Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, skip the ghee and use oil instead.
Aval Upma is a beloved South Indian dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe is sure to satisfy your breakfast cravings with its perfect balance of spices, textures, and freshness.
