Introduction: Elevate your breakfast game with our Millet and Vegetable Upma recipe, a hearty and nutritious dish packed with the goodness of millets and colorful vegetables. This South Indian classic is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect way to kick-start your day. Join us as we explore the simplicity and wholesomeness of Millet and Vegetable Upma, a comforting breakfast option that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet (any variety such as foxtail, little, or barnyard)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
• A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the millet under cold water and drain well.
2. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the chopped onions, green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
4. Add the diced carrots, green peas, and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are soft and pulpy.
6. Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rinsed millet and salt to taste.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the millet is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
8. Once the millet is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the vegetable mixture.
9. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Garnish the Millet and Vegetable Upma with roasted peanuts and chopped cilantro leaves.
11. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.

Variations:

• Feel free to add other vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or spinach to the upma for added flavor and nutrition.
• You can also add a pinch of turmeric powder or sambar powder for extra depth of flavor.
• For a protein boost, stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes along with the vegetables.

Nutritional Information: Millet and Vegetable Upma is a nutritious and wholesome breakfast option that’s rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Millets provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while vegetables offer a wide range of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate. This dish is also a good source of plant-based protein from the millets and peanuts, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal option. Enjoy Millet and Vegetable Upma as a delicious and comforting way to start your day!

Conclusion: Millet and Vegetable Upma is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. With its vibrant colors, hearty texture, and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to please your palate and fuel your body for the day ahead. Whether enjoyed as a standalone breakfast or paired with a cup of hot chai, Millet and Vegetable Upma is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s loved by all. Give this recipe a try and experience the wholesome goodness of millets and vegetables in every bite!