Upma is a beloved South Indian breakfast dish known for its comfort and versatility. Traditionally, this dish involves roasting semolina or rava, then cooking it with a mixture of vegetables and spices to create a delicious porridge-like consistency. However, with modern kitchen appliances like the Instant Pot, making upma has become quicker and simpler, retaining all its traditional flavors with less effort. This blog post will guide you through the Instant Pot Upma Recipe, ensuring you master this easy and delicious dish.
Why Use an Instant Pot for Upma?
- Time-saving: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional stovetop methods.
- Hands-off cooking: You can set it and forget it until it's done, making it convenient for busy mornings.
- One-pot meal: This method minimizes the cleanup, as you cook everything in one pot.
- Consistency: The Instant Pot ensures even cooking, preventing the common issue of burnt upma.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semolina (Rava/Sooji) | 1 cup |
| Water | 2.5 cups |
| Onions, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 small |
| Green chilies, slit | 2-3 |
| Ginger, grated | 1 inch |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Channa dal | 1 tbsp |
| Urad dal | 1 tbsp |
| Curry leaves | A few |
| Coriander leaves, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Vegetable oil or ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Optional veggies (carrot, peas, etc.) | 1 cup |
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Semolina
First, switch your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. When the display reads ‘Hot’, add the semolina to the inner pot. Roast it, stirring continuously until it turns light brown. This step brings out the nutty flavor. Once done, transfer the roasted semolina to a bowl and keep it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tadka
In the same pot, add oil or ghee. Once it’s hot, throw in mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add channa and urad dal, followed by curry leaves, green chilies, and grated ginger. Stir for about a minute until the dals turn golden.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions to the pot, sauté until translucent. If using additional veggies like carrots or peas, this is when you add them. Cook until they are slightly tender.
Step 4: Pressure Cooking
Pour in the water and add salt. Stir in the roasted semolina, ensuring there are no lumps. Add tomatoes. Close the lid with the valve set to ‘sealing’. Pressure cook on ‘Manual/Pressure Cook’ for 2 minutes at low pressure. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually.
Step 5: Final Touch
Open the lid, fluff the upma with a fork. If it looks too dry, add a bit of hot water, stir, and let it sit covered for another minute. Squeeze lemon juice over the top, garnish with coriander leaves, and serve hot.
🎯 Note: Adjust the amount of water depending on your preference for the consistency of the upma. Some like it more moist, others prefer it firmer.
Variations
- Vegetable Upma: Incorporate more veggies like bell peppers, beans, or corn for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Cheesy Upma: Sprinkle some grated cheese on top for an indulgent twist.
- Masala Upma: Add pav bhaji masala or sambar powder for an extra burst of flavor.
To summarize, the Instant Pot transforms the humble upma into a hassle-free dish. You enjoy the traditional taste with modern convenience, enabling you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your breakfast. Whether for a quick weekday meal or a leisurely weekend brunch, this Instant Pot Upma Recipe is a winner in any household.
Can I make Upma without roasting the semolina?
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Yes, you can skip roasting the semolina, but roasting imparts a richer, nuttier flavor to the dish, which is a key characteristic of traditional Upma.
How can I store leftover Upma?
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Upma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the microwave or with a splash of water on the stove until hot.
What are some good sides to serve with Upma?
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Upma pairs wonderfully with coconut chutney, pickle, or yogurt. You can also serve it with tea or filter coffee for a complete South Indian breakfast experience.
