This traditional breakfast from coastal Karnataka (Tulunadu) consists of two components: Sajjige (sweet-savory semolina upma) and Bajil (spiced seasoned beaten rice).

They are served together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Part 1: Bajil (Spiced Poha) Preparation
Ingredients:
Beaten rice (Thin Poha): 2-3 cups
Jaggery powder: 2-3 tbsp
Grated coconut: 1/2 cup
Sambhar powder or Rasam powder: 1 tsp
Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
Salt to taste
Seasoning for Bajil:
Oil: 2 tsp
Mustard seeds: 1/2 tsp
Cumin seeds: 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves: 1 sprig
Dried red chilies: 1-2
Instructions:
Prepare the Coconut Mixture: In a large bowl, mix grated coconut, jaggery, sambhar powder, red chili powder, and salt. Rub them together with your fingers to release the coconut milk and dissolve the jaggery.
Seasoning: Heat oil in a small pan, add mustard seeds, cumin, curry leaves, and red chilies. Once they splutter, add this to the coconut mixture.
Mix with Poha: Add the thin poha to the bowl. Gently toss and mix so the poha absorbs all the spices and coconut flavor. Set aside.
Part 2: Sajjige (Upma) Preparation
Ingredients:
Semolina (Rava): 1 cup (Roasted)
Water: 2.5 cups
Onion: 1 medium (chopped)
Green chilies: 2-3 (slit)
Ginger: 1/2 inch (finely chopped)
Grated coconut: 2 tbsp
Salt and sugar to taste
Seasoning for Sajjige:
Ghee or Oil: 2 tbsp
Mustard seeds: 1/2 tsp
Urad dal & Chana dal: 1 tsp each
Cashew nuts: a few (optional)
Curry leaves
Instructions:
Roast Rava: Dry roast the semolina until it becomes aromatic and slightly changes color.
Temper: Heat ghee/oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, dals, cashews, and curry leaves.
Sauté: Add onions, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until onions are translucent.
Boil Water: Add 2.5 cups of water, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Bring it to a rolling boil.
Cook: Slowly add the roasted rava while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cover and cook on low flame for 3-4 minutes.
Finish: Garnish with fresh grated coconut and a teaspoon of ghee.
Serving Suggestion
Place a portion of Sajjige (Upma) on one side of the plate and Bajil (Poha) on the other. It is traditionally enjoyed with a side of sev (fried noodles) or filter coffee.
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