Suji Upma: Comforting Classic
Upma, a timeless South Indian breakfast, is incredibly easy to make with suji as the main ingredient. The process begins with dry roasting the suji until
it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This step is important for adding a roasted flavour. Next, in a pan, you'll temper mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, curry leaves, and other preferred spices, followed by sautéing onions, chilies, and any vegetables you like, like peas or carrots. After that, add water and let it come to a boil. Reduce the heat and gradually add the roasted suji, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer until the water is absorbed, and the upma becomes fluffy. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing zing, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal. The beauty of upma lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences with different vegetables and spices.
Suji Chilla: Savory Pancakes
Suji chilla, a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, offers a savory and quick breakfast choice. The preparation starts by creating a batter of suji, yogurt, water, and various spices, like cumin, coriander, and green chilies. Allow the batter to rest for a while, letting the suji to absorb the liquids and soften. The resting period is crucial for the chilla to attain a good texture. Next, heat a flat griddle or pan and lightly grease it with oil. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the hot surface and spread it thinly to form a pancake. Cook it on both sides until it turns golden brown and slightly crispy. Chillas can be enjoyed with chutney, curd, or any other dip of your liking. The recipe can also be customized with vegetables such as finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and capsicum added to the batter for extra flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious breakfast option.
Suji Idli: Steamed Delight
Suji idli is a variation of the South Indian staple, made with suji instead of the traditional rice and lentil batter. Begin by preparing the batter using suji, yogurt (or buttermilk), and a bit of water to achieve the right consistency. A pinch of baking soda can be added to make the idlis soft and fluffy. Let the batter rest for around 15-20 minutes, allowing the suji to absorb the liquids. Grease the idli molds and fill each cavity with the batter. Steam the idlis in an idli maker or a steamer for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fully cooked. Check by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the idlis are ready. Serve them hot with sambar and coconut chutney for an authentic and fulfilling breakfast. Suji idli provides a quicker alternative to the traditional preparation and is a great source of carbohydrates, making it a very good breakfast choice.
Suji Dhokla: Steamed Snack
Suji dhokla, another beloved Gujarati snack, transforms the simple suji into a spongy, flavorful treat. To prepare suji dhokla, make a batter using suji, yogurt, ginger-chili paste, and a pinch of turmeric. Allow the batter to ferment slightly for a better texture. Then, add a small amount of fruit salt (eno) to make the dhoklas soft and fluffy. Pour the batter into a greased dhokla steamer or a microwave-safe container. Steam the dhokla for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until it is completely cooked. Check it by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it is ready. Temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida in oil and pour it over the dhokla. Cut it into squares and garnish with coriander leaves. Serve suji dhokla with green chutney and a cup of tea for a delightful breakfast, offering a combination of textures and flavors.
Suji Porridge: Creamy Warmth
Suji porridge offers a comforting, simple, and nutritious breakfast. Begin by gently roasting the suji in a pan until it turns golden brown. Then, in a separate pot, boil milk (or water for a vegan alternative) and add the roasted suji gradually, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Sweeten the porridge with sugar, jaggery, or honey, as per your taste. For added flavour and nutrition, add dry fruits such as raisins, almonds, and cashews. Cook the porridge on low heat, stirring continuously, until it reaches the desired consistency. The longer it simmers, the creamier it becomes. Serve it hot, topped with a sprinkle of cardamom powder for an aromatic touch. Suji porridge is easily customizable, allowing you to include a variety of fruits, nuts, and spices to enhance its flavour and nutritional value, making it a satisfying breakfast.
Suji Appe: Mini Bites
Suji appe are mini, fluffy dumplings, also known as paniyaram in some regions, that make for a fun and delicious breakfast. Start by preparing a batter using suji, yogurt, water, and spices like green chilies and ginger. Allow the batter to rest for about 20-30 minutes, letting the suji to absorb the liquids. Heat the appe pan and grease each cavity lightly with oil. Pour a spoonful of the batter into each cavity and cook on medium heat. Flip the appe when one side is golden brown and cook the other side until it also turns golden. Serve hot with chutney or sambar. Vegetables like finely chopped onions, carrots, and capsicum can also be incorporated into the batter to increase the nutritional value and flavour, making it a wonderful breakfast choice.
Suji Pancakes: Fluffy Treats
Suji pancakes are a delightful variation of traditional pancakes, providing a quick and easy breakfast option. The preparation begins by making a batter with suji, milk or water, a binding agent like mashed banana or egg, and a bit of baking powder for a fluffy texture. If you want a more savory flavour, you can add some salt and spices. Let the batter sit for a few minutes. Heat a greased griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour a ladle of batter onto the hot surface, forming a pancake of desired size. Cook until bubbles start to form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Serve with your preferred toppings, like honey, maple syrup, fruits, or a dollop of yogurt, making a sweet and satisfying breakfast that the whole family will enjoy. These pancakes offer a quicker alternative to traditional recipes.
