Quinoa Upma

 Upma is another staple breakfast dish in  South India. There are many varieties of upma that are made with a vast variety of ingredients. The basic upma is made with Rava or Sooji. Vegetables as simple as pigeon peas give it an amazing taste.
An aroma fills into the home when u make an upma, its to die for. A hot plate of upma with a spoon of  ghee on top... awww  heavenly.

Here is a version made with quinoa instead of Sooji. Quinoa is now the world's super food loaded with protein, minerals and fiber.It has been consumed for thousands of years in South America, although it only became trendy and reached “superfood status” a few years ago.These days, you can find Quinoa and products made with it all over the world  especially in health food stores and restaurants that emphasize natural foods. Quinoa is gluten free and grown organically. Need I say more.

All you need

Quinoa  1 cup
Water to pressure cook 2 cups
Onion - 1 finely chopped or thin slices.
Chopped and cooked Mix Vegetables - 2 cups I used carrots, beans, aloo and peas.You can also use colored bell pepper,  cubed tofu or paneer and corn.
Garam Masala - 1 tsp
Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp
Salt to taste
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Urad Dal - 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves- 1 sprig
Ginger grated - 1/2 inch
Green Chillies - 3 finely chopped
Coriander leaves -1/4 cup finely chopped
Oil - 1 Table spoon

Pressure cook quinoa and keep aside.

Heat a kadai and add oil. I usually use olive oil but you can use whichever is suitable for your family.
Once the oil is hot add mustard seeds and let it splutter, now add urad dal, let it brown, add the curry leaves, ginger , coriander leaves and onions.
Once onions are done add the cooked mixed veggies ( I usually cook them in a microwave for 5 mins).
Add turmeric powder, garam masala and salt. Cover and cook for 5 mins.
Now add Quinoa, mix well , reduce the heat and cover for about 5 mins.Switch off the flame.

Garnish with some coriander leaves.

Enjoy this nutritious upma with a topping of ghee.