Quinoa Upma

Quinoa is rich source of protein, dietary fiber, several B vitamins and minerals. I like its crunchy taste . Even though it is a seed we can use it as a grain and eat it as a substitute for rice. At home we eat quinoa instead of rice with sambar and dal. You should try my quinoa with Black bean chili that is one of my favorite combinations. Quinoa upma is very easy to make like any other upma.

Preparation time: 30 min

Serving : 2 people

Ingredients

1 cups dry quinoa
2 cups water
1 small onion
1 cup mixed vegetables (I used carrot, green beans and cauliflower)
2 green chillies
I sprig curry leaves
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp channa dal
1/4 tsp urad dal
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Salt to taste
1 Tbsp oil

Procedure

1. Wash the quinoa and keep it aside
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan or Kadhai
3. Add the channa dal and mustard seeds, when the mustard cracks add the urad dal and fry until they turn golden
4. Add the onion and green chillies and saute for a minute
5. Add the curry leaves and the mixed vegetables and fry for 2-3 minutes
6. Add the garam masala,salt, water and quinoa 
7. Turn the heat to high cover with a lid and cook until the water starts to boil
8. Now reduce the heat to medium, cover and cook until the vegetables and quinoa are well done. This takes about 15-18 minutes.
9. Turn of the stove and mix in the lemon juice

This is very healthy and high in protein and can be enjoyed at anytime of the day. I usually make this for lunch as it has all the vegetables and protein.

Enjoy!!