Introduction

Varai Upma is a savory dish made from varai (barnyard millet), a gluten-free grain commonly used in Indian cuisine. This light and nutritious upma is flavored with aromatic spices and enriched with vegetables, making it a wholesome breakfast or evening snack option. Let’s explore how to prepare Varai Upma with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Varai (Barnyard Millet)
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tablespoon Oil
• 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• 1 teaspoon Urad Dal (Split Black Gram)
• 1 teaspoon Chana Dal (Split Bengal Gram)
• A pinch of Asafoetida (Hing)
• 1-2 Green Chilies, chopped
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Carrot, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Green Peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped Capsicum (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cooking Varai (Barnyard Millet)

1. Rinse and Soak:
   • Rinse the varai thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.
   • Soak the varai in water for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to soften the grains slightly.
2. Cook Varai:
   • In a saucepan or pressure cooker, add soaked varai and 2 cups of water.
   • Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until varai is cooked and water is absorbed.
   • Once cooked, fluff the varai with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Upma

1. Tempering:
   • Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add urad dal and chana dal. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. Add Aromatics:
   • Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   • Add chopped carrot, green peas, and capsicum (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crunchy.
4. Seasoning:
   • Add turmeric powder and salt to taste. Mix well to combine.
5. Combine Varai:
   • Add the cooked varai (barnyard millet) to the pan with the tempered vegetables.
   • Mix everything gently until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Simmer:
   • Cover the pan and let the upma simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish:
   • Garnish Varai Upma with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Optionally, serve with lemon wedges for a tangy twist.
2. Serve Hot:
   • Serve Varai Upma hot as a nutritious breakfast or evening snack.
   • Enjoy it plain or with a side of yogurt, pickle, or coconut chutney.

Tips for Making Perfect Varai Upma

• Vegetables: You can customize the vegetables according to your preference. Add bell peppers, beans, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Water Ratio: The water ratio is crucial for perfectly cooked varai. Adjust as needed based on the cooking method and desired consistency.
• Variations: You can add roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Conclusion

Varai Upma is a wholesome and flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of barnyard millet. With its aromatic spices and nutritious vegetables, this upma not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free breakfast option or a light evening snack, Varai Upma is a delicious way to incorporate millets into your diet. Try this recipe and savor the goodness of varai in every bite!