Mixed Vegetable Idli Upma Recipe
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this vibrant Mixed Vegetable Idli Upma, a classic South Indian dish that beautifully transforms leftover idlis into a nutritious and flavorful breakfast. With an array of vegetables and spices, this dish not only satiates your hunger but also tantalizes your taste buds. Perfectly suited for vegetarian diets, this recipe serves four and takes just about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal option for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Idli | 10, cut into dice |
| Pearl onions (Sambar onions) | 10, finely chopped (or 1 large onion) |
| Green bell pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped |
| Green chillies | 3, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, finely chopped |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, finely chopped |
| Green beans (French beans) | ½ cup, finely chopped |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | ½ teaspoon |
| White urad dal (split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 6, finely chopped |
| Sesame (gingelly) oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mint leaves (Pudina) | A small bunch, finely chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on exact ingredient quantities and variations, this dish is generally low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables used.
Instructions
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Preparation of Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that the idlis are cut into small, bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the pearl onions, green bell pepper, green chillies, ginger, carrot, green beans, and mint leaves. This preparation is essential for ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution.
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Heating the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat one teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to release its aroma but not smoking.
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Tempering Spices: Once the oil is heated, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to crackle for a few seconds, releasing their distinctive flavor. Next, add the white urad dal. Roast it gently until it turns a light brown, which will add a nutty flavor to the dish.
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Sautéing Aromatics: After the dal is roasted, introduce the finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté them until they become translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves, stirring them in to infuse their flavors.
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Adding Vegetables: Now it’s time to add the chopped carrots, green bell pepper, and green beans. Sprinkle some salt to taste, and continue to roast the vegetables on medium heat. If you find that the mixture is drying out, you can optionally sprinkle a little water and cover the pan to steam cook the vegetables until tender, approximately 3-5 minutes.
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Incorporating Idlis and Spices: Once the vegetables are tender, add the turmeric powder and the diced idlis to the pan. Adjust the salt as needed. To ensure the idlis absorb the flavors while remaining moist, sprinkle a bit more water over them. Stir all the ingredients together gently to avoid breaking the idlis.
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Simmering the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow the Mixed Vegetable Idli Upma to simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
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Final Touches: After the simmering time, remove the lid and add the chopped mint leaves. Stir well to combine. The mint adds a refreshing touch to the dish, enhancing its aroma and taste.
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Serving: Transfer the Mixed Vegetable Idli Upma to a serving bowl. For an authentic South Indian experience, serve it hot alongside a tangy Roasted Garlic Tomato Chutney and a cup of Kumbakonam Filter Coffee to elevate your breakfast.
This Mixed Vegetable Idli Upma is not just a dish; it is a celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas that brings the warmth of South Indian cuisine to your table. Enjoy every bite as it nourishes both the body and soul!
