Bread Upma Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a quick, flavorful way to transform simple ingredients into a vibrant and satisfying dish, perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy solo meal. The zesty lemon juice and fresh coriander topping give it a refreshing twist, making every bite an explosion of comforting and tangy flavors.

Taking uncomplicated elements and crafting them into something delicious and exciting is what I love most about cooking. With Bread Upma, one of my favorite dishes, I start with 6 slices of bread and simple spices, like mustard seeds and turmeric, that pop with flavor; add a medium onion, diced, that I pan-fry until golden and crisp; then finish with a squeeze of lemon that takes the dish to an electrifying new place.

Voila! Bread Upma.

Ingredients

The main source of carbohydrates, bread adds bulk and texture.

Onion: When cooked, it provides a sweetness and is loaded with antioxidants.

Green chili: Offers warmth and piquancy; contains capsaicin.

Turmeric powder: Contributes color and an earthy taste; recognized for its anti-inflammatory attributes.

Mustard seeds lend a toasty flavor and warmth, assisting in digestion.

Cumin seeds: Earthy taste, recognized for aiding digestion.

Tomato: Provides a blend of moisture and tartness while being loaded with vitamin C.

Curry leaves: Fragrant and nutrient-rich.

Lemon juice: Contributes to a finished dish a bright, zesty flavor, with levels of citric acid that easily cut through rich foods.

Coriander leaves: Flavor like an herb, but it is part of the carrot family.

Coriander leaves are healthful and aromatic but not to everyone’s liking.

Ingredient Quantities

• 6 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, chopped
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Start with the bread and cut the slices into small cubes; then set them aside.

2. In a large pan, over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of oil.

3. To hot oil, add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter.

4. In a bowl, combine ½ teaspoon of cumin seeds and ½ teaspoon of refined sunflower oil. Mix well. grams of cumin seeds.

5. Place the perfectly chopped onion, green chili, and nicely cut curry leaves in a large pan. Sauté in the hot oil until the onion is fried and has achieved the perfect level of translucency.

6. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.

7. Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and an appropriate amount of salt, and mix thoroughly.

8. The bread cubes are to be added to the pan and tossed gently to coat them with the spices and vegetables.

9. Remove from heat and mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander leaves. Mix all ingredients thoroughly.

10. Serve the Upma Bread hot as a tasty breakfast or snack alternative.

Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Knife
3. Large pan
4. Small bowl
5. Spatula or wooden spoon
6. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Can I use any type of bread for Bread Upma?Certainly! You can use any kind of bread, including white, whole wheat, or multigrain. However, stale bread is best because it absorbs the flavors better.
• What can I substitute for green chili if I want less heat?For a flavor that’s a little less spicy, use bell pepper instead of the chili, or, if you prefer, leave the chili out entirely.
• Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?Certainly! You can incorporate vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers, for enhanced nutrition and flavor.
• How do I prevent the bread from becoming too soggy?Break the bread into small pieces before putting it into the pan, and be sure to give it a quick toast in order to keep some of its original texture.
• Is it necessary to use lemon juice?Lemon juice provides a fresh, citrusy flavor, but if you would rather not use it, you can substitute chaat masala for a similar flavor boost.
• How long does it take to make Bread Upma?This recipe is fast and simple, taking about 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
• Can Bread Upma be served cold?Warm is the best way to enjoy Bread Upma, but it can also be relished cold if that is your preference.

Substitutions and Variations

Whole wheat or multigrain bread provides more fiber than white bread, so the next time you make a sandwich, use one of those instead.
Use ghee instead of oil to achieve a more robust taste.
If you cannot find brown mustard seeds, you may use black mustard seeds.
If cumin seeds are not on hand, use caraway seeds for a different but equally delicious taste.
Substitute red chili powder or paprika for green chilies for different depths of flavor and heat.
If fresh curry leaves are not available, you can use dried curry leaves, but fresh is preferred for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Bread Cubes Before adding the bread cubes to the pan, consider lightly toasting them in a separate pan or oven. This will give them a slightly crispier texture and help them absorb the flavors without getting too soggy.

2. Use Fresh Curry Leaves Ensure you use fresh curry leaves for maximum flavor. If they are not available, you might want to use a few drops of curry leaf essential oil or dried curry leaves as a substitute, though the fresh aroma will be missing.

3. Balance the Heat Adjust the amount of green chili based on your spice preference. If you prefer less heat, deseed the chili or use a mild variety. Alternatively, increase the quantity for more kick.

4. Enhance with Additional Veggies For added nutrition and texture, you can include extra vegetables such as finely chopped bell peppers, peas, or grated carrots. These should be added after the onions, allowing them to cook through.

5. Garnish with Roasted Peanuts Add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy element. This can be sprinkled on top just before serving for an extra layer of texture and flavor.