Recipe For Making Upma – South Indian Style

Looking for a quick, tasty, and healthy breakfast? Try upma! This South Indian dish is made with roasted semolina, veggies, and spices. It’s perfect for busy mornings, and even beginners can master it. Let’s learn how to make fluffy, flavorful upma in just 20 minutes!

What is Upma?

Upma is a popular Indian breakfast made from rava (semolina). It’s lightly spiced, packed with veggies, and has a soft yet slightly crunchy texture. Kids and adults both love it!

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 2-3 people)

• 1 cup rava/semolina (fine variety)
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 carrot (grated) 🥕
• 2-3 green chilies (chopped) 🌶️
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp urad dal (optional)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 8-10 curry leaves 🌿
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges 🍋 (for serving)

Optional Add-ins: Peas, bell peppers, or cashews!

👩🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Roast the Rava

• Heat a pan on medium flame. Add the rava and dry roast it for 4-5 minutes until it turns golden and smells nutty. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Set aside.

2. Tempering the Spices

• In the same pan, heat oil/ghee. Add mustard seeds. When they pop, add urad dal (if using), curry leaves, green chilies, and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Cook the Veggies

• Add chopped onions and sauté until soft. Toss in grated carrots (and other veggies). Cook for 2-3 minutes.

4. Boil Water

• Pour 2 cups of water into the pan. Add salt and bring it to a boil.

5. Mix in the Rava

• Reduce the flame to low. Slowly add the roasted rava while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Mix well.

6. Steam & Serve

• Cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes. Turn off the stove and let it rest for 2 minutes. Fluff it up with a fork.

7. Garnish & Enjoy!

• Squeeze lemon juice on top. Serve hot with coconut chutney or a sprinkle of sev!

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Upma

• Roast rava well: This stops the upma from turning sticky.
• Water ratio: Use 2x water for 1x rava (1:2 ratio).
• Add veggies: Customize with your favorites!
• Ghee magic: A spoon of ghee makes it extra flavorful!

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 20 minutes.
• Budget-friendly and filling.
• Great for lunchboxes or snacks.