Savory Oat Upma

 

Savory Oat Upma 

Alright, here’s my take: this upma is honestly a game-changer if you’re trying to sneak veggies and fiber into your morning without feeling like a rabbit. It’s Indian comfort food, but with oats. Weird? Maybe. Delicious? Oh, for sure.

 

What you’ll need (feeds 2, or one really hungry person):

-          1/2 cup rolled oats (not the instant junk, please)

-          1 tbsp oil/ghee (be generous, life’s too short)

-          1 tiny onion, chopped up fine

-          1 small carrot, grated (or just chop it if you can’t be bothered)

-          1 small tomato, diced (squishy is fine)

-          1 tsp mustard seeds

-          1/2 tsp cumin seeds

-          1/2 tsp turmeric powder (for that glow-up)

-          Salt, to taste (go wild)

-          Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (or skip, I won’t judge)

Stuff you need:

-          A pan or a kadai (if you wanna be authentic)

-          Wooden spoon (or whatever you have)

-          Basic measuring stuff (or eyeball it, live a little)

How do you do it:

1. Dump your oil/ghee in the pan, medium heat. Wait till it’s shimmery.

2. Toss in mustard and cumin seeds. Let ‘em pop and dance, don’t walk away or they’ll burn and smoke out of your kitchen.

3. Add onions. Sauté until they’re see-through and maybe a little golden if you’re patient.

4. Carrot and tomato go in next. Give it 2-3 minutes, just till they soften up.

5. Now oats, turmeric, and salt. Stir it up so everything gets cozy.

6. Pour in a cup of water. Bring it to a good boil.

7. Drop the heat, simmer for about 5-7 mins. Oats should be soft but not mushy. Taste and adjust salt if you’re feeling fancy.

8. Top with cilantro. Serve hot. Eat immediately or risk a sad, sticky mess later.

Macros (per person, if you care): 

·       Calories: 250-300ish 

·       Carbs: 35-40g 

·       Protein: 5-6g 

·       Fat: 10-12g 

·       Fiber: 4-5g

Quick Tips & Hacks:

-          Swap in any leftover veggies. Have bell peppers or peas? Chuck ’em in.

-          Spice friends: hit it with garam masala or a pinch of chili powder.

-          Coconut oil or sesame oil? Freaking delicious.

-          Want to get weird? Plop some yogurt or sprinkle cheese on top. Judge me later.

FQA

Q: Can I meal-prep this?

A: Heck yes. Make a batch, toss it in the fridge (2 days max). Reheat, maybe with a splash of water.

Q: Can I use different spices?

A: Obviously. Your kitchen, your rules. Go nuts.

 

There you go—upma but make it oats. Try it, then brag about your healthy breakfast to everyone.