Bread Upma

Description

Bread Upma is a delightful and quick-fix Indian breakfast or snack that transforms humble bread slices into a flavorful and satisfying dish. This recipe is a testament to the art of repurposing leftover bread into a scrumptious and wholesome meal, making it a popular choice in households across India. Here’s a detailed guide to crafting the perfect Bread Upma:

Ingredients:

1. Bread Slices: The primary ingredient, bread slices, serve as the base for the upma. You can use whole wheat or white bread, and even multigrain for added nutrition.
2. Vegetables: Diced or finely chopped vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, green bell peppers, and peas are employed to add a burst of colors, textures, and essential nutrients to the dish.
3. Mustard Seeds: The tempering of mustard seeds in hot oil imparts a nutty flavor and marks the beginning of the dish with a subtle aroma.
4. Urad Dal (Black Gram): Urad dal is often included in the tempering, lending a mild crunch and nuttiness to the Bread Upma.
5. Chana Dal (Split Chickpeas): Chana dal contributes a delightful texture and a slightly nutty flavor, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
6. Curry Leaves: The fragrant curry leaves add a distinct South Indian touch, infusing the upma with an earthy aroma and flavor.
7. Green Chilies: Finely chopped green chilies introduce a hint of spiciness, elevating the overall taste profile of the puma. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference.
8. Turmeric Powder: A pinch of turmeric powder not only imparts a beautiful golden hue to the upma but also offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
9. Salt: The perfect amount of salt is crucial to balance the flavors and bring out the natural taste of the ingredients.
10. Coriander Leaves: Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped, serve as a vibrant garnish, contributing a refreshing herbal note.
11. Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
12. Oil or Ghee: Used for cooking and tempering, oil or ghee brings a rich flavor to the Bread Upma.

Instructions:

1. Preparation of Bread: Begin by cutting the bread slices into bite-sized pieces. You can either use fresh bread or slightly stale bread, making this an ideal recipe to repurpose leftovers.
2. Tempering: In a pan, heat oil or ghee and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add urad dal and chana dal. Allow them to roast until they turn golden brown, releasing their distinct flavors.
3. Aromatics: Introduce finely chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the tempered oil. Sauté until the onions turn translucent, creating a fragrant base for the upma.
4. Vegetable Medley: Add diced tomatoes, green bell peppers, and peas to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender yet retain a slight crunch.
5. Spices: Sprinkle turmeric powder over the vegetable mixture, ensuring an even coating. Adjust the spice level with additional green chilies if desired.
6. Bread Incorporation: Add the bite-sized bread pieces to the pan, gently tossing them with the vegetable mixture to coat evenly. Allow the bread to absorb the flavors and become slightly crisp.
7. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt over the upma, adjusting to taste. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, providing a refreshing and tangy element.
8. Garnish: Finish off the Bread Upma by garnishing it with finely chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant greenery not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a delightful herbal aroma.
9. Serve Warm: Bread Upma is best enjoyed warm, straight from the pan. Serve it on a plate or in traditional Indian style with a side of coconut chutney or yogurt for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Variations:

• Cheese Topping: For a decadent twist, sprinkle grated cheese over the finished Bread Upma, letting it melt and create a gooey, savory layer.
• Nutty Crunch: Add roasted peanuts or cashews to the tempering for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Spice Blend: Experiment with your favorite spices such as cumin powder, coriander powder, or garam masala to tailor the flavors to your liking.

Bread Upma is a celebration of creativity in the kitchen, turning a simple staple into a flavorful and comforting dish. With its quick preparation time, versatile nature, and ability to use leftover bread effectively, this recipe stands as a testament to the resourcefulness of Indian cuisine. Enjoy the warm and aromatic goodness of Bread Upma as a wholesome breakfast or a delightful snack that brings together the best of flavors and textures.