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Oats Upma is a healthy twist on the traditional South Indian breakfast dish, Upma.
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It has oats instead of semolina.
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Thus, this dish is made very fast and gets stuffed with tremendous fibre amounts, making it perfect for any good breakfast or light meal.
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This dish will satisfy you and prove to be mouth-watering, with the combination of roasted oats, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices.
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Here is how to make this delightful dish step-by-step.
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First, you need 1 cup (100 grams) of oats, which you should dry roast in a pan over medium heat.
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Keep on stirring the oats for about 3-4 minutes till they start to slightly brown and emit a nutty aroma.
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This process of roasting enhances the flavour of oats and presents a delightful crunch.
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After roasting, let the oats cool down on a plate and set it aside.
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This is one of the most significant steps in making an Upma because it will develop into a flavourful one.
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In the same pan, add two tablespoons of oil.
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When the oil is hot, add one teaspoon of mustard seeds.
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Allow them to splutter for a couple of seconds; this way, they will release their essential oils and give a fragrant note to the dish.
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Now add one teaspoon of cumin seeds, one teaspoon of urad dal, and one teaspoon of chana dal.
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Fry these till the dals turn golden brown, which generally takes about a minute.
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It is the mixture of all these spices that gives the Upma a flavour profile, where the Upma crunches and also has a great aroma.
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Then add the finely chopped onion, 1-2 chopped green chillies, and a few curry leaves.
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Saut them until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
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The green chillies give a nice zing to the dish, whereas the curry leaves give it an aromatic flavour unique to South Indian cooking.
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Now is the time to add colour and nutrition to your Upma.
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To the pan, add 1/2 cup (75 grams) of chopped mixed vegetables like carrots, beans, peas, and capsicum.
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Stir occasionally until they are soft but crunchy, for about 4-5 minutes.
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That has increased the nutrient value of the dish and makes it attractive.
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Now it's time to add the roasted oats back into the bowl. Add the roasted oats to the pan and mix them with 1/2 Tsp of turmeric powder, 1/2 Tsp of red chilli powder, and salt as per taste.
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Toss well so that the spices are all evenly coated on the oats and the vegetables.
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Cook for another 2-3 minutes, so flavours can combine.
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Add the final touches to the dish by adding 2 cups or 500 ml of hot water.
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Stir it well and then place a lid on the pan followed by reduced heat.
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Let the Upma cook for around 5-7 minutes so that the oats are well-cooked and all the water is absorbed completely.
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The steaming process will create a soft, fluffy consistency in the oats.
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Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat source and let Oats Upma rest for 2 to 3 minutes more.
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This resting period allows the flavour to stabilise. While serving, you may garnish it with chopped coriander leaves to give it a fresh burst of flavour and colour.
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Best served warm, accompanied by a yoghurt or chutney, which offsets the texture of this wholesome dish with its creamy finish.
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That makes this another easy recipe that's just as versatile, great for lunch or a lighter dinner.
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Healthy, savoury oats upma will satisfy any mealtime craving at any time!