Puffed Rice Upma Recipe – Murmura Upma
Puffed Rice Upma (known as Murmura Upma in South India) is a light, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make dish that serves as a perfect breakfast or snack. This dish is a staple in many South Indian homes, made from puffed rice (murmura), cooked with a delightful mix of spices, vegetables, and a hint of tangy lemon juice. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, it is ideal for those busy mornings when you need a quick, filling meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puffed rice (murmura) | 6 cups |
| Sunflower oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 10 leaves (roughly torn) |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1-inch piece |
| Raw peanuts (moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Green chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Green peas (steamed) | 1/4 cup |
| Turmeric powder (haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Tomato (roughly chopped) | 1 medium |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Puffed Rice:
Begin by washing the puffed rice under running water for about 30 seconds. This helps to soften the puffed rice and remove any excess dust. Once washed, place the puffed rice in a colander to drain off the excess water. Let it sit for a few minutes to ensure all the water is removed. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can skip the washing step and add the puffed rice directly into the pan. -
-
Heat the Oil and Temper the Spices:
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil. Once the oil heats up, add the mustard seeds. Let them crackle, releasing their distinctive aroma. Next, add the cumin seeds and raw peanuts. Stir-fry them for a couple of minutes until the peanuts become crisp and emit a roasted fragrance. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the grated ginger, finely chopped onions, green chillies, and curry leaves to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt. Sauté the ingredients on medium heat until the onions turn translucent and soft. This step infuses the oil with the flavors of ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves, which are the backbone of the dish’s aroma. -
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the steamed green peas and turmeric powder to the pan, mixing well. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook everything together for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes soften and lose their raw texture. The turmeric will give the upma a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor. -
Combine the Puffed Rice:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the drained puffed rice (murmura) to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring that the puffed rice is coated with the oil and spices. Add the lemon juice and finely chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. Adjust the salt and spice levels according to your preference. -
Final Stir and Serve:
Give the upma a final gentle stir, mixing all the ingredients thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the Puffed Rice Upma hot, garnished with additional coriander leaves, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Puffed Rice Upma can be served as a light breakfast or a quick evening snack. Pair it with a hot cup of Kesar Chai (Saffron Tea) for a delicious tea-time experience. You can also enjoy it with coconut chutney or pickle to add an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Puffed Rice Upma:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings.
- Light and Nutritious: Made with puffed rice and packed with vegetables, it’s a low-calorie yet filling dish.
- Customizable: Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer or adjust the level of spice to suit your taste.
- Comforting: The warm, aromatic flavors from curry leaves, ginger, and mustard seeds offer a comforting, homely feel.
Enjoy this classic South Indian breakfast in the comfort of your own home with just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort!
