This Special Upma is not only a nostalgic comfort food but also a powerhouse of nutrition and taste. It’s a quick fix for busy mornings, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
🌟 IntroductionUpma, a South Indian staple, is one of the easiest and healthiest breakfast recipes made with semolina (rava or suji), vegetables, and flavorful tempering. Light yet filling, this Special Upma brings in the warmth of homemade flavors with a twist of added crunch and nutrition.Whether you’re in a morning rush or looking for a light dinner option, this upma recipe is wholesome, satisfying, and customizable with your favorite ingredients.
Servings: 4
Cost: 100
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 cup semolina rava / suji
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal optional
- 1 tsp chana dal
- 8 –10 curry leaves
- 1 –2 green chilies finely chopped
- 1- inch ginger grated
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup carrot finely chopped
- ¼ cup green peas fresh or frozen
- 2½ cups water
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp ghee optional
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Roasted cashews optional
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Rava
- In a dry pan, roast the rava on low heat until aromatic and slightly golden.
- Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Tempering
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add urad dal, chana dal, and roast until golden.
- Add curry leaves, chopped green chilies, and ginger. Sauté for a few seconds.
- Add onions and cook until translucent.
- Add chopped vegetables and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Upma
- Add 2½ cups of water to the pan. Add salt and bring to a boil.
- Slowly add roasted rava, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 3–4 minutes.
- Once the water is absorbed, fluff the upma with a fork.
- Turn off the heat, add lemon juice, chopped coriander, and optional ghee.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with coconut chutney or pickle
- Enjoy it with a side of masala chai
- Add boiled peanuts or grated coconut for extra flavor
💡 Pro Tips
- For fluffy upma, use coarse semolina
- Stir continuously while adding rava to avoid lumps
- You can add veggies like beans, capsicum, or sweet corn
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing)