Tomato Upma

Ingredients

• 1 cup Sooji (Also known as semolina or rava)
• 2 units Tomatoes (Pureed)
• 1 unit Onions (Chopped)
• 4 units Green chillies
• 1 inch Ginger
• 1 sprig Curry leaves
• 1 tsp Mustard seeds
• 0.5 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1 tsp Split urad dal
• 1 tbsp Ghee
• 1 tsp Turmeric
• 1 tsp Red chilli powder
• 0.5 tsp Sugar
• 1 handful Coriander leaves (For garnish)
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. 1In a pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee over low heat. Add the sooji and roast gently, stirring continuously, until it is well coated with ghee. Ensure the sooji does not change color.
2. 2In the same pan, heat the remaining ghee. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add urad dal, ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté until the urad dal turns golden brown and the ginger is cooked.
3. 3Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4Puree the tomatoes and add them to the pan along with 1/2 teaspoon of sugar. Cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
5. 5Stir in the turmeric and red chilli powder, cooking for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
6. 6Add 2 cups of water and salt to the pan, bringing it to a boil. Squeeze in the lemon juice and adjust salt to taste.
7. 7Gradually stir in the roasted sooji, ensuring there are no lumps. Cover and cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
8. 8Check the consistency of the upma. If needed, cook uncovered for a few more minutes to reach the desired thickness.
9. 9Once cooked to the desired consistency, garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.