Introduction: Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to prepare a hearty and comforting dish – Pearl Millet Upma, also known as Bajra Upma! Upma is a versatile South Indian breakfast dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. In this recipe, we’re incorporating pearl millet, a nutritious whole grain, to create a wholesome and satisfying upma that’s perfect for starting your day on a healthy note. Join us as we explore the simplicity and nourishment of Pearl Millet Upma.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl millet (bajra)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons ghee or cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1/2 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• A handful of curry leaves
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans), finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Freshly chopped coriander leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the pearl millet under running water and drain well.
2. In a saucepan, heat ghee or cooking oil over medium heat.
3. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot ghee/oil. Let them splutter.
4. Add urad dal and chana dal to the pan. Sauté until the dals turn golden brown.
5. Add finely chopped green chilies and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
6. Add finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
7. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender.
8. Add the rinsed pearl millet to the pan and mix well with the vegetables and spices.
9. Pour in 2 cups of water and season with salt according to taste. Stir well to combine.
10. Cover the pan with a lid and let the upma cook over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the millet is cooked through and water is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
11. Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the Pearl Millet Upma with a fork.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
13. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Variations:

• You can customize the vegetables used in the upma according to your preference. Other options include bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
• For added flavor, you can add grated ginger or garlic to the upma.
• You can also garnish the upma with roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Information: Pearl Millet Upma is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Pearl millet is gluten-free and rich in antioxidants, making it suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or those looking to maintain a healthy diet. This dish is light yet filling, providing sustained energy to kick-start your day.

Conclusion: Pearl Millet Upma is a delicious and wholesome breakfast option that’s perfect for the entire family. With its fluffy texture, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables, this upma is sure to be a hit at the breakfast table. Whether enjoyed hot or warm, Pearl Millet Upma is a nutritious way to start your day on a delicious note. Give this recipe a try and experience the nourishing goodness of pearl millet in every bite!