Upma (Semolina Breakfast Porridge)

Ingredients

• 1 cup Semolina (Rava/Sooji)
• 2 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil or Ghee
• 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• 1 teaspoon Urad Dal (Split Black Lentils)
• 2 tablespoons Cashews (optional)
• 0.5 cup Chopped Onion
• 1 cup Chopped Vegetables (Carrots, Peas, Beans)
• 1 number Green Chilies
• 1 teaspoon Ginger
• 10 number Curry Leaves
• 0.75 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. 1Place 1 cup of semolina in a dry 10-inch skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C). Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes, or until the semolina smells nutty and turns a light golden brown. Immediately transfer the roasted semolina to a separate bowl and set aside.
2. 2Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee in a 3-quart heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat (350°F / 175°C). Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon of urad dal. Cook for 30-60 seconds, or until the mustard seeds begin to pop and the urad dal turns golden brown.
3. 3If using, add the 2 tablespoons of cashews to the pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
4. 4Add the 0.5 cup of chopped onion, 2 green chilies (finely chopped), 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, and 10 curry leaves to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
5. 5Add the 1 cup of chopped vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and beans) to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender.
6. 6Pour in the 2 cups of water and add the 0.75 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
7. 7Reduce the heat to medium-low (300°F / 150°C). Slowly pour the roasted 1 cup of semolina into the boiling water while stirring continuously with a whisk or spoon. Keep stirring for about 1 minute to ensure there are no lumps.
8. 8Cover the pot with a lid. Cook on low heat (250°F / 120°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the upma has a thick, porridge-like consistency. Stir once halfway through to prevent sticking.
9. 9Remove the pot from the heat. Let it stand, covered, for 2 minutes to allow the upma to steam and finish cooking. Serve hot.

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