Bread Upma

I made this bread upma using the left over Pan Siciliano bread (refer to my previous post) that I baked for the baking group. You can use any bread that you have in hand.  Slightly stale bread works better.  It is simple, yet very comforting dish and super easy to make.  Try using different spices that suit your palate.
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Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Serves: 2-3

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Ingredients:
Any kind of Bread Slices - 10, cut into cubes with the crust
Onion - 1, medium, finely chopped
Tomato - 2, chopped
Green chilies - 2, chopped
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Urad dal - 1 tsp
Cumin seeds - 1/2 tsp
Sambar powder - 1 tbsp
Black pepper powder - 1/2 tsp
Red chili powder - 1/2 tsp
Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp
Fennel powder - 1/2 tsp (optional)
Lemon Juice - 1 tbsp or to taste
Salt - to taste
Oil - 2 tbsp
Ghee / Clarified butter - 2 tbsp
Curry leaves - few
Fresh coriander / Cilantro - for garnishing

Method:

1. Heat ghee in a skillet and toss the bread slices.  Roast until golden brown.  Alternatively you can also use the oven to toast the bread.  Toss the bread cubes with ghee and place it in a baking sheet and bake in a 350F. oven until golden brown.
2. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan and splutter mustard seeds.  Add urad dal and cumin seeds.  Fry until golden brown.
3. Add the chopped onion, green chilies and curry leaves.  Saute until translucent.  Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a minute.
4. Add Sambar powder, black pepper, red chili powder, turmeric powder and fennel powder(if using).
5. Saute for 30 seconds.
6. Add the roasted bread slices and salt.  Mix thoroughly.  Sprinkle about 2 tbsp water and cover.
7. Let it cook for a minutes on a low flame.  Remove from heat and add the lemon juice and cilantro. Mix gently and serve hot.