Introduction

Hello! I’m Chef Ajay Chopra, and today I’ll show you how to make a delicious and quick Vermicelli Upma. Unlike regular Upma, this method keeps the vermicelli non-sticky and full of flavor. We’ll add lots of fresh vegetables and finish it with crunchy fried peanuts and cashews for an extra bite. It’s a nutritious, colorful dish that’s perfect for any time of the day. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids to enjoy vegetables. Let’s get started with this easy and tasty recipe!

 

Portion, Prep, and Cooking Time

Portion servings: 6-7 pax

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 90 minutes

 

Ingredients of Seviyan Upma

For Frying Nuts:

• Oil - 2 tbsp
• Peanuts - 1 tbsp
• Cashew - 1 tbsp

For Boiling Seviyan:

• Water - as required
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Oil - 1 tbsp
• Seviyan (vermicelli) - 2 cups

For Semiya Upma:

• Oil - 1 tbsp
• White urad dal - ½ tbsp
• Chana dal - ½ tbsp
• Mustard seeds - 1 tsp
• Curry leaves - 10-12 pcs
• Ginger (chopped) - ½ tbsp
• Green chili (chopped) - ½ tbsp
• Dry red chili - 1 pc
• Onion (chopped) - 2 pcs
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Carrot (diced) - ½ cup
• French beans (chopped) - ½ cup
• Capsicum (diced) - ½ cup
• Green peas - ½ cup
• Boiled Semiya
• Fried nuts
• Coriander (chopped) - 1 tbsp

 

Instructions of Seviyan Upma

Step 1: Fry the Nuts

Heat the oil: Place a pan on medium flame and add 2 tbsp oil.

Add the nuts: Fry peanuts and cashews until golden brown and aromatic.

Set aside: Remove the fried nuts from the pan and keep them for garnishing.

Step 2: Boil the Seviyan

Boil water: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp oil.

Cook seviyan: Add the seviyan and let it cook until soft but firm (al dente). Stir occasionally.

Drain and set aside: Strain the boiled seviyan immediately and set it aside. Do not rinse with water.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

Heat oil: Use a wide pan and heat 1 tbsp oil.

Add spices and dals: Add urad dal, chana dal, and mustard seeds. Let them crackle and turn golden.

Flavor with aromatics: Add curry leaves, chopped ginger, green chilies, and a broken dry red chili. Sauté until aromatic.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Sauté onions: Add chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until translucent.

Add vegetables: Stir in carrots, beans, capsicum, and green peas. Cook until tender but still crunchy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Mix boiled seviyan: Add the boiled seviyan to the pan. Toss gently to combine with the vegetables and spices.

Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes on low flame.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Add nuts: Sprinkle fried peanuts and cashews on top.

Garnish: Add freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve hot: Enjoy your Seviyan Upma with coconut chutney or pickle.

 

About the Recipe

Seviyan Upma is a unique twist on the traditional Upma. Instead of using semolina, we use vermicelli, which gives the dish a different texture and taste.

The trick to making perfect Seviyan Upma is in boiling the vermicelli just right. It should have a slight bite and not become mushy. Adding a variety of vegetables makes it colorful and healthy. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for breakfast or a light dinner.

To make it even more special, I fry peanuts and cashews until they are golden brown and add them at the end. This step gives the dish a wonderful crunch that everyone enjoys.

Cooking Tips

• Always roast the vermicelli lightly before cooking. This prevents it from sticking together.
• When boiling the vermicelli, add a little oil and salt to the water. This helps keep the vermicelli separate and enhances the flavor.
• Do not overboil the vermicelli. Check if it has a slight bite and strain it immediately.
• Prepare the tempering (tadka) with fresh vegetables and ensure they are well-cooked but still retain some crunch.
• Add the fried peanuts and cashews just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Pairing Guide

Seviyan Upma pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with coconut chutney or a tangy pickle for added flavor.

For a wholesome meal, serve it with a bowl of yogurt or some fresh fruit on the side. It is a versatile dish that goes well with many accompaniments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Seviyan Upma?

   Seviyan Upma is a dish made with vermicelli, vegetables, and a tempering of spices. It is similar to traditional Upma but uses vermicelli instead of semolina.

2. Can I use roasted vermicelli?

   Yes, roasted vermicelli works perfectly. It saves time as you can skip the dry roasting step.

3. Why does my Seviyan stick together?

   This happens if the vermicelli is overcooked or not roasted properly. Add a little oil to the boiling water to prevent sticking.

4. What vegetables can I add?

   You can add carrots, beans, peas, capsicum, and onions. Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.

5. Can I make it vegan?

   Yes, simply use oil instead of ghee and skip any dairy-based sides like yogurt.

6. How do I store leftover Seviyan Upma?

   Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it on a pan with a little water to regain the softness.

7. What is the best oil for this recipe?

   Regular cooking oil works fine, but you can also use coconut oil or ghee for extra flavor.

8. Can I make this recipe spicy?

   Yes, you can add more green chilies, red chilies, or chili powder to suit your taste.

9. What can I serve with Seviyan Upma?

   It tastes great with tea, coffee, coconut chutney, or pickle. You can also serve it with yogurt for a balanced meal.

10. Is Seviyan Upma healthy?

    Yes, it is a healthy dish as it includes vegetables, nuts, and vermicelli. You can make it even healthier by adding more vegetables.