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Bread Poha Upma: Your Quick & Tasty Indian Breakfast Fix!

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Chef Curry Do’pyaza

Bread Poha Upma: Your Quick & Tasty Indian Breakfast Fix!

Namaste Doston! Kem cho? Sasriakal!

Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, back in your kitchens and ready to spice up your mornings! Today, we are diving into a super easy, super delicious, and super quick breakfast dish: Bread Poha Upma! This is your answer when you crave something flavorful but are short on time.

Bread Poha Upma is a delightful dish that is popular in many Indian homes, especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It’s a common sight during festivals like Diwali and Holi when quick, satisfying snacks are always in demand. It’s also a great choice for those busy weekday mornings or lazy Sunday brunches.

A Little History Lesson

While the exact origin is a bit hazy, Bread Poha Upma is believed to be a clever adaptation of the traditional Poha Upma (made with flattened rice). Someone, somewhere, probably had leftover bread and a craving for Upma, and BOOM! A star was born! It’s a testament to Indian ingenuity and our love for adapting recipes to our pantries.

Get Ready to Cook!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

What You Need (Ingredients)

  • 6 slices Bread (Any type, but white or brown works best)
  • 1 medium Onion (Pyaaz), finely chopped
  • 1 Green Chili (Hari Mirch), finely chopped (adjust to your spice level!)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Mustard Seeds (Rai)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
  • A pinch of Asafoetida (Hing) – Optional, but adds a lovely flavor
  • 1/4 cup Peanuts (Moongphali)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Coriander Leaves (Hara Dhaniya), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Nimbu ka Ras)
  • 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (Tel)
  • Salt (Namak) to taste
  • 1/4 cup Water

Let’s Get Cooking!

  1. Prep the Bread: First, tear the bread slices into small, bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about being perfect; rustic is good!
  2. Temper the Spices: Heat the oil in a pan or wok (kadai) over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add the cumin seeds, asafoetida (if using), and peanuts. Roast the peanuts until they turn golden brown. The aroma will be amazing!
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn a beautiful translucent golden brown.
  4. Add the Magic: Stir in the turmeric powder and salt. Sauté for another minute.
  5. Introduce the Bread: Add the torn bread pieces to the pan. Mix well, ensuring the bread is coated with the spices.
  6. Sprinkle with Water: Sprinkle the water over the bread. This will soften the bread and help the flavors meld together. Cover the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread is soft and heated through.
  7. Finish with Flair: Remove from heat. Squeeze the lemon juice over the Bread Poha Upma. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Chef Curry’s Tips for the Best Bread Poha Upma

  • Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the bread, or it will become mushy.
  • Spice it Up: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Sweet and Tangy: Add a pinch of sugar for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Bread Choice: Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the spices better without becoming too soggy.

Different Ways to Cook Your Bread Poha Upma

  • Gas Stove/Induction Stove: Follow the recipe above using a pan or wok.
  • Microwave: Mix all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Air Fryer: Toss the bread with the spice mixture and spread in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, estimates will vary based on ingredients used)

  • Calories: 250-300
  • Protein: 8-10g
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Fat: 10-15g

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot as a quick breakfast or snack.
  • Pair it with a cup of hot chai (tea) or coffee.
  • Add a dollop of yogurt (dahi) for a cooling effect.
  • Garnish with sev (crispy chickpea noodles) for extra crunch.

So there you have it, folks! A simple, flavorful, and satisfying Bread Poha Upma recipe that you can whip up in minutes. I encourage you to try this recipe at home. Share the deliciousness with your friends and family. They will surely love it. Happy cooking!