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Originating from the South Indian culinary tradition, upma is more than just a breakfast staple; it’s a canvas for creativity and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for ensuring that young learners start their day with a meal that is both satisfying and healthful. In the bustling morning routine of preparing meals for school kids, upma emerges as a saviour which is versatile, nourishing, and easily customisable.
The base of upma consists of rava or sooji, which is toasted to a light golden hue and then cooked with a variety of spices, vegetables, and sometimes nuts or lentils. This adaptability allows upma to cater to diverse taste preferences and nutritional needs, transforming it into a dish that can be tailored to the specific likes and requirements of school-aged children.
Rava Upma
This savoury dish is made from rava or semolina, sautéed with mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal for crunch. Vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions add colour and nutrition, while a touch of curry leaves and green chillies provides aromatic depth. Seasoned with salt and a hint of lemon juice, Rava Upma offers a savoury, slightly tangy taste that's both satisfying and kid-friendly. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy school mornings.
Poha Upma
Poha Upma is a delightful and nutritious option for school kids, combining the light, flattened rice poha with a medley of vibrant ingredients. This dish features finely chopped onions, green chillies, and aromatic mustard seeds, all sautéed together. A touch of turmeric adds a golden hue and mild warmth, while fresh coriander leaves enhance its freshness. The texture is soft yet slightly crispy, offering a pleasant contrast, and the flavours are both savoury and mildly tangy.
Quinoa Upma
Quinoa, instead of semolina, features a mix of colourful vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, adding vibrant flavours and essential nutrients. Aromatic spices such as cumin, mustard seeds, and curry leaves infuse it with a delightful taste. The dish is both fluffy and slightly nutty, thanks to quinoa, and offers a satisfying, wholesome meal that kids will enjoy.
Oats Upma
Made with rolled oats, this dish features a mix of sautéed onions, tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Flavoured with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a hint of turmeric, it offers a mild, savoury taste with a delightful texture. The oats provide a wholesome base, absorbing the flavours while adding a unique twist to this beloved breakfast dish, making it both healthful and appealing to young palates.
Semiya Upma
This upma features semiya (vermicelli), a blend of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and chopped vegetables like carrots and peas. The vermicelli is sautéed to a golden brown before being cooked with spices and a touch of lemon juice. The result is a savoury, mildly spiced dish with a comforting texture that's both satisfying and nutritious. Its mild flavours and vibrant colours make it an appealing and wholesome option for children’s lunches.
