Introduction:
Bread upma is a delicious and easy-to-make South Indian dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a light snack. It's a great way to use up leftover bread and is flavored with a medley of spices and vegetables. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the ingredients, instructions, nutritional benefits, and even provide a nutritional chart. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For this simple and delightful bread upma, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4-5 slices of bread (white or whole wheat), cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup of green peas
- 1/4 cup of carrots, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of bell peppers, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup of tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
b)Sauté Mustard and Cumin Seeds: Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
C)Add Aromatics: Add chopped onions, green chilies, and minced ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
d)Add Vegetables: Add green peas, chopped carrots, and bell peppers (if using). Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
e)Seasoning: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the mixture is well-cooked.
f)Add Bread Pieces: Add the bread pieces to the pan and gently toss to combine. Ensure the bread is coated with the spice mixture.
g)Cook: Cover the pan and let the bread pieces cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
h)Garnish: If desired, sprinkle lemon juice and fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor.
I)Serve: Your delicious bread upma is ready to be served hot!
Nutritional Health Benefits:
Bread upma offers several nutritional benefits:
a)Carbohydrates: Provides energy due to bread and vegetables.
b)Protein: Contains protein from bread and peas.
c)Fiber: Offers dietary fiber from vegetables and whole wheat bread.
d)Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins and minerals from various vegetables.
e)Low in Fat: This dish is relatively low in fat, especially if you use minimal oil.
Nutritional Chart (Per Serving):
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Protein: ~7g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Fat: ~5g
Conclusion:
Bread upma is a tasty and nutritious dish that's quick to prepare and a great way to use up leftover bread. It's rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients from the vegetables. This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste by adding your favorite vegetables and adjusting the spice level. Enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, or a delightful snack!
FAQ:
1. Can I use brown bread instead of white bread for upma?
A)Yes, you can use brown or whole wheat bread for a healthier version of bread upma.
2. Can I make it vegan?
A)Absolutely! Just use a plant-based oil and skip the optional lemon juice. It's naturally vegetarian.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
A)Of course! You can add or omit vegetables based on your preferences. Common additions include corn, broccoli, and beans.
4. Can I make it less spicy?
A)Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your spice tolerance. You can even omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. How long does it stay fresh?
A)Bread upma is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
