Bread Upma is a quick and flavorful Indian breakfast made with toasted bread cubes tossed in a spicy onion-tomato masala. This comforting dish comes together in just 15 minutes and is perfect for busy mornings.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:1 serving
Category:Breakfast
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Indian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 to 3 slices bread (any bread)
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon urad dal
1 sprig curry leaves
3/4 teaspoon ginger paste
1 green chili, slit or chopped
8 to 10 cashew nuts or 2 tablespoons peanuts
1/4 cup onions, chopped finely
1/2 cup ripe tomatoes, chopped finely
Salt, as needed
1/8 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon sugar
3 to 4 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped finely
Lemon juice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Toast the bread slices on both sides until crisp. Cool completely and cut into small cubes. Set aside.
Heat oil in the same pan over medium heat. Fry the cashews or peanuts until golden and crunchy. Remove and set aside with the bread cubes.
Add mustard seeds and urad dal to the pan. Saute until the urad dal turns lightly golden.
Add green chilies and curry leaves. Saute until the curry leaves turn crisp.
Add onions and saute until golden. Stir in the ginger paste and cook for 30 seconds.
Add tomatoes, salt, and turmeric. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
Stir in red chili powder and sugar. Saute for 1 to 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Pour in 3 to 4 tablespoons water and mix well.
Cook until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Add the toasted bread cubes and fried cashews or peanuts. Toss gently until the bread is coated with the masala.
Sprinkle coriander leaves and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread for the best texture.
Milk bread may not require additional sugar.
Peanuts can be substituted for cashews for extra crunch.
Adjust green chilies and chili powder according to spice preference.
Serve immediately to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.