Classic Sooji Upma
Upma, a savory porridge, is arguably the most recognizable sooji breakfast dish. The basic recipe involves dry-roasting semolina, then cooking it with
water and seasonings. To prepare, begin by dry roasting the sooji until it is lightly golden and aromatic. Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Once they splutter and turn golden, add chopped onions, green chilies, and any desired vegetables such as peas, carrots, and beans. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Add the roasted sooji and water, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the water is absorbed and the upma is fluffy. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for an enhanced flavor. This classic version sets the stage for many variations.
Vegetable-Packed Upma
Building upon the classic, a vegetable-packed upma is an excellent way to boost nutritional value. It includes a medley of colorful vegetables, offering added textures and flavors. Prepare the base as in the classic upma, but include a wider variety of chopped vegetables. Consider adding capsicum (bell peppers), corn kernels, and even finely chopped beans. The key is to ensure the vegetables are cooked through and tender. Cook the vegetables with onions until softened. Add the roasted sooji and water and simmer until the water is absorbed. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of turmeric for vibrant color. Garnish with fresh coriander for added freshness. This version is more appealing and nutritious, providing a balanced breakfast option.
Tomato Sooji Upma
This variant introduces a tangy element by incorporating tomatoes. They add a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the sooji. To make tomato upma, sauté chopped tomatoes along with onions and other vegetables. The tomatoes should soften and release their juices. After the tomatoes are cooked, add the roasted sooji and cook as usual. Season with salt, chili powder, and other spices, adjusting to taste. Tomato upma can be served with a side of chutney or yogurt for added flavor. This variety offers a delightful change from the classic upma and provides a slightly different taste experience.
Masala Sooji Upma
For those who prefer a spicier breakfast, masala upma is an excellent choice. It incorporates a blend of aromatic spices to create a complex and flavorful dish. Use a generous amount of spices like ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, and garam masala. You may also add a pinch of asafoetida. The spices should be sautéed in oil to release their flavors before adding the sooji. Proceed with the basic cooking method, ensuring the spices are well-blended with the sooji and water. Garnish with fresh curry leaves for a distinctive flavor. Masala upma will give a warm and spicy start to the day. Adjust the spice level according to your preferences.
Sooji Idli
Sooji can be creatively incorporated into a breakfast that offers a different texture and taste. Sooji idli involves a batter made from semolina, yogurt, and spices, steamed until fluffy. First, combine sooji and yogurt, letting the mixture rest for about 20 minutes to allow the semolina to soften. Add finely chopped ginger, green chilies, and any other spices, like curry leaves. Then add a pinch of baking soda for the desired texture. Pour the batter into idli molds and steam them in an idli steamer. Serve the sooji idlis with sambar and chutney. Sooji idli is a healthier alternative and a delightful departure from the traditional rice-based idlis.
Sooji Uttapam
Uttapam, similar to pancakes, can also be made with sooji, providing a textured breakfast option. This variation offers a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Prepare a batter using sooji, yogurt, and water, letting the semolina soften. The batter can be seasoned with salt, green chilies, and onions. Pour the batter onto a hot griddle and spread it to a desired thickness. Cook until golden brown on both sides. Serve hot with chutney or sambar. The uttapam is a flexible breakfast, easily customizable with various toppings such as tomatoes, capsicum, and coriander, offering a quick and satisfying meal.
Sooji Kesari
Kesari is a sweet dish made with sooji, known for its vibrant color and sweet taste. It offers a warm and comforting treat, perfect for breakfast. The process involves dry-roasting sooji until lightly golden. Sauté it in ghee along with sugar and water, and infuse it with saffron for colour and fragrance. The addition of dry fruits like cashews and raisins further elevates the taste. Cook the sooji and stir it continuously to prevent lumps until the mixture thickens and the water is absorbed. Garnish with more dry fruits. Sooji kesari is a delightful sweet option for breakfast, or can be enjoyed as a dessert.
Sooji Halwa
Halwa, a classic Indian dessert, can also be enjoyed for breakfast. This version highlights the simplicity of sooji and provides a rich, sweet experience. The process involves roasting the sooji in ghee until it turns golden. Add sugar and water, and cook until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. The addition of cardamom powder and dry fruits adds a pleasing aroma and texture. You may choose to incorporate nuts such as almonds and pistachios. Serve the halwa warm. Sooji halwa offers a satisfying, rich, and flavorful breakfast option, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Sooji Dosa
Sooji can be creatively used to prepare a unique style of dosa. It has a slightly different taste and texture. Prepare a batter with sooji, rice flour, and yogurt. The batter should be slightly thin and is best made a few hours before cooking to let the sooji soften. Season the batter with salt, and if desired, add green chilies and onions. Pour the batter onto a hot griddle and spread it thinly. Cook until the dosa turns golden brown and crispy. Serve this with sambar and chutney. Sooji dosa provides an interesting twist on the traditional dosa, offering a lighter and crispier alternative.
Sooji Pancakes
These pancakes provide a light and fluffy alternative to regular pancakes. The preparation begins by blending sooji with other ingredients to make the batter. You can add a mashed banana to the batter to give a subtle sweetness. Add baking powder or baking soda for the required fluffiness. Cook on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides. Serve these with honey or your favorite fruit toppings. Sooji pancakes offer a simple, quick and fulfilling breakfast. The recipe gives you the liberty to customize with additions like chocolate chips or nuts, making it a favorite for all ages.
