Upma - Savory Semolina Porridge

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 10 leaves curry leaves
• 1 inch piece ginger
• 2 whole green chilies
• 1 medium onion
• 1 medium carrot
• 1 cup peas
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cilantro

Instructions

1. 1

   Roast the semolina in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously until it turns light golden and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. 2

   In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds.

4. 4

   Add 10 curry leaves, 1 inch piece of finely chopped ginger, and 2 whole green chilies (slit lengthwise). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

6. 6

   Add 1 medium chopped carrot and 1 cup of peas. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

7. 7

   Pour in 2 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

8. 8

   Once boiling, slowly add the roasted semolina while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

9. 9

   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the semolina absorbs the water.

10. 10

    Remove from heat and fluff the Upma with a fork. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro.

11. 11

    Serve hot, optionally with coconut chutney or lemon wedges.