Seyal Phulka
A classic Sindhi breakfast dish, Seyal Phulka is a genius way to transform leftover rotis into a delicious, savory porridge. Bite-sized pieces of phulka are simmered in a tangy and spicy onion-tomato gravy, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. It's the ultimate expression of no-waste cooking and a heartwarming taste of home.
For 4 servings
9 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Begin by preparing the rotis
- a.Tear them into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch squares. Set aside.
- 2
Heat the oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat
- a.Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and allow them to crackle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.
- 4
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies
- a.Cook for another minute until the raw aroma of the paste disappears.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, until they turn soft and mushy. Use the back of your spoon to mash them slightly to help form a cohesive gravy base.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Add the dry spice powders: turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala for 1-2 minutes, until the oil begins to separate from the edges.
- 7
Pour in the water and add the amchur powder
- a.Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
- 8
Gently add the torn roti pieces to the boiling gravy
- a.Mix well to ensure all pieces are submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. The rotis will absorb the liquid and become tender.
- 9
Turn off the heat
- a.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Give it a final gentle mix and serve the Seyal Phulka immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Day-old rotis are ideal as they are slightly dry and hold their shape better, preventing the dish from becoming overly mushy.
- 2Adjust the water quantity to your preference. Use slightly less water for a drier, upma-like texture, or more for a softer, porridge-like consistency.
- 3Serve immediately. Seyal Phulka tends to thicken and can become dry as it cools.
- 4If you don't have amchur powder, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end provides a similar tangy flavor.
- 5For a richer taste, you can use ghee instead of oil for tempering.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with the onions for added nutrition and texture.
Seyal DabalSeyal Dabal
A popular variation where leftover bread slices (dabal roti) are used instead of phulkas. Simply tear the bread into pieces and follow the same recipe.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of garam masala along with the other spices for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
Protein RichProtein-Rich
Add some crumbled paneer or boiled chickpeas towards the end of the cooking process to boost the protein content.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
Made from whole wheat rotis, this dish is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Promotes No-Waste Cooking
This recipe is an excellent example of sustainable and mindful eating, as it creatively utilizes leftovers, reducing food waste in the household.
Rich in Antioxidants
The base of tomatoes, onions, ginger, and garlic, along with spices like turmeric, provides a good dose of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Aids Digestion
Spices like cumin seeds and ginger are known for their digestive properties, which can help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut health.
Frequently asked questions
Seyal Phulka is a traditional Sindhi dish made from leftover rotis (phulkas) that are simmered in a savory and tangy onion-tomato gravy. 'Seyal' means 'cooked in gravy', and it's a popular, no-waste breakfast or brunch item.