By Deepali Verma
October 2, 2024
Atukula Upma, also known as Poha Upma, is a quick and nutritious South Indian breakfast dish made with flattened rice, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs.
1 cup Atukulu (Thick Poha) 1 ½ - 2 tablespoons Oil ⅛ teaspoons Mustard Seeds ⅛ teaspoons Cumin Seeds 1 Dry Red Chili (optional) 2 tablespoons Peanuts ¼ small Onion (sliced) 3 small Green Chilies (chopped) 4 big Curry Leaves (or 10 small leaves) ½ teaspoon crushed Garlic ⅛ teaspoon Turmeric ½ teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste) Few drops of Lime Juice (optional) ¼ cup chopped Cilantro (for garnish)
Slice the onions, chop the chilies, wash curry leaves, and crush garlic. Wash atukulu, squeeze out the water, and put them in a colander.
Heat oil in a pan. Roast red chili, then add cumin and mustard seeds. When seeds pop, add peanuts and stir for a few seconds.
Add curry leaves, green chilies, and onions one at a time until onions are translucent, chilies change color, and peanuts are roasted. Add garlic and sauté for another few seconds.
Add turmeric, salt, and give a good stir. Add washed atukulu and stir until seasoning coats. Stir fry for a few minutes until atukulu are lightly fried.
Taste and adjust salt. Turn off the flame. Squeeze some lime juice, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot. If there are any leftovers, refrigerate. Before serving, sprinkle a few drops of water and microwave for a minute or until warm.