Chatpata Semolina Bake

The image displays a dish resembling a savory semolina (suji/rava) preparation, often referred to as Vegetable Upma or Sooji Upma in India. Here’s a general recipe for Chatpata Semolina Bake :

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup semolina (suji/rava)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon urad dal (split black lentils, optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas, optional)
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing, optional)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1-inch ginger, grated or finely chopped (optional)
  • Mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, beans, capsicum), finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • A few curry leaves
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon juice (optional)
     
Instructions:
  1. 1. Roast the Semolina:

    Heat a pan and dry roast the semolina on medium-low heat until it turns light golden and aromatic. Transfer to a plate and set aside. 

     
  2. 2. Prepare the Tempering:

    In the same pan, heat oil or ghee. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal and chana dal (if using) and sauté until golden. Add asafoetida and curry leaves. 

     
  3. 3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables:

    Add chopped onions, green chili, and ginger (if using) and sauté until the onions turn translucent. Add the chopped mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes until slightly tender. 

     
  4. 4. Add Water and Seasoning:

    Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to taste. 

     
  5. 5. Incorporate Semolina:

    Slowly add the roasted semolina to the boiling water while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook until the water is absorbed and the semolina is cooked through and fluffy. 

     
  6. 6. Finish and Serve:
    Turn off the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot.