How to make Idli Upma with Veggies

Healthy Idli Upma with Veggies

Ingredients:

• 6-8 leftover idlis, crumbled into small pieces
• 1 tbsp oil (olive, sunflower, or any healthy oil)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp urad dal (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup mixed veggies (carrot, peas, beans, capsicum), finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews (optional, for crunch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare veggies:
   Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal and sauté until golden (optional).
2. Sauté aromatics:
   Add chopped onions and green chili, sauté till translucent.
3. Cook veggies:
   Add mixed veggies and a pinch of salt. Cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes till veggies are tender but still crisp.
4. Add spices:
   Add turmeric powder and mix well.
5. Add crumbled idli:
   Toss the crumbled idli pieces into the pan, mix gently with the veggies. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the idli pieces heat through and absorb the flavors.
6. Finish:
   Turn off the heat, squeeze lemon juice, and sprinkle chopped coriander leaves. Add roasted peanuts or cashews if using.
7. Serve:
   Serve hot with coconut chutney or plain yogurt.

Tips:

• You can add mustard seeds and curry leaves for an authentic South Indian flavor.
• Adding a pinch of black pepper or chaat masala can give a nice spicy tang.
• If you want a little more texture, sprinkle some grated coconut on top.