Egg Bread Upma
A quick and savory scramble of torn bread pieces, fluffy eggs, and classic Indian spices. This delicious and filling dish, also known as 'Anda Bread Poha', comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or a quick evening snack.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Bread: Tear the bread slices into small, bite-sized, uneven pieces (about 1-inch). Set aside. This rustic tearing method helps the bread absorb flavors better than uniform cubes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper the Spices (Tadka): Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter for about 30 seconds. Add the curry leaves and sauté for another 15 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: Add the finely chopped onion and green chilies to the pan. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for one minute until its raw aroma disappears. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and mushy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Spices and Scramble Eggs: Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala for one minute. Push the masala to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty space. Let them set for 30 seconds, then gently scramble. Once partially cooked, mix the eggs with the masala and continue cooking until they are about 90% done but still slightly moist.
- 5
Combine and Finish: Add the torn bread pieces to the pan
- a.Gently toss everything together, ensuring the bread is evenly coated with the egg and masala mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the bread to heat through and absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- 6
Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat
- a.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, if using. Serve the Egg Bread Upma hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use day-old or slightly stale bread. It's drier and holds its shape much better, preventing the upma from becoming soggy.
- 2Tear the bread into uneven pieces rather than cutting into perfect cubes for a more authentic texture that grabs the masala well.
- 3Do not overmix after adding the bread. A gentle toss is all that's needed to coat the pieces without breaking them down.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of oil or a combination of both.
- 5Keep the eggs slightly moist before adding the bread. They will finish cooking with the bread and prevent the final dish from being too dry.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Delight
Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers (capsicum), carrots, or green peas along with the onions for added nutrition and crunch.
Cheesy TwistCheesy Twist
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the upma just before serving and cover the pan for a minute to let it melt.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala or pav bhaji masala along with the other powdered spices for a different flavor profile.
South Indian StyleSouth Indian Style
Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and 1 teaspoon of urad dal to the tempering for a classic South Indian flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Protein Powerhouse
With six eggs in the recipe, this dish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Quick Energy Booster
The carbohydrates from the bread provide a quick and accessible source of energy, making this a perfect meal to start your day or refuel after a workout.
Rich in Antioxidants
Ingredients like tomatoes, onions, turmeric, and curry leaves are packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Egg Bread Upma (approximately 1.5 cups or 215g) contains around 350-400 calories. The exact count can vary based on the type of bread and amount of oil used.