When we talk about easy, healthy and delicious breakfast options in Indian households, Upma always make its way to the top! Specially in South India, Upma is not just a dish, it’s an emotion. But the best part? It’s not limited to any region now – upma has become a national favourite. Whether you are a college student, working woman, or a homemaker – this simple dish fits into everyone’s routine perfectly.
Today on HerDuniya, let’s explore the classic Upma recipe, its benefits, and some secret tips that will make your upma taste just like your dadi’s or naani’s hand!
What is Upma?
Upma is a savoury porridge made from semolina (suji or rava) and cooked with vegetables, spices and herbs. It’s usually eaten for breakfast but you can honestly eat it anytime – lunch, dinner or even as a snack. The soft texture, lightness and flavor-packed ingredients make it both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need (for 2-3 servings)
Here’s what you need to make the perfect Upma at home:
- 1 cup Rava / Suji / Semolina
- 2 tbsp Oil or Ghee
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1 tsp Urad Dal
- 1 tsp Chana Dal (optional but adds crunch)
- 8-10 Curry Leaves
- 1-2 Green Chilies (finely chopped)
- 1 inch Ginger (grated)
- 1 Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 small Carrot (chopped)
- 1/4 cup Green Peas
- 2.5 cups Water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander leaves
- Lemon juice (optional)
How to Make Upma – Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Dry Roast the Rava
Take a heavy pan, add rava and roast it on medium flame until it gives a nice aroma and turns light golden. Keep stirring to avoid burning. Once roasted, keep it aside.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 2: Tempering
In the same pan, heat oil or ghee. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal and chana dal. Fry till golden.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 3: Add the Flavours
Add curry leaves, chopped green chillies and grated ginger. Sauté for a few seconds. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Now add chopped carrots and peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes till veggies become slightly soft.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 5: Add Water & Salt
Pour 2.5 cups of water and add salt as per taste. Let the water come to a boil.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 6: Add Rava Slowly
Once water is boiling, reduce the flame and slowly add roasted rava with one hand and stir continuously with the other hand to avoid lumps.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 7: Cook & Cover
Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. Then cover the lid and let it cook for 3-4 mins on low flame.
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Switch off the flame, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and little lemon juice if you like. Serve hot!
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Source: https://in.pinterest.com/
Benefits of Eating Upma
You might think it’s just a quick breakfast dish, but Upma is loaded with health benefits. Let’s see how:
1. Rich in Fiber and Keeps You Full
Rava is a good source of dietary fiber which helps in digestion and keeps you full for longer. Perfect for those who are trying to control hunger pangs or lose weight.
2. Good Source of Energy
Upma gives an instant boost of energy thanks to the carbs in semolina. A perfect breakfast for busy mornings!
3. Supports Heart Health
When cooked with veggies and minimal oil, Upma is low in cholesterol and supports good heart health.
4. Helps in Weight Loss
It’s light, easy to digest and keeps you satisfied for longer – all these help in managing weight naturally.
5. Boosts Immunity
With the addition of fresh vegetables and spices like ginger, curry leaves, and mustard seeds – Upma becomes a mini immunity booster.
6. Customisable & Budget-Friendly
From veggies to spices, you can customize the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s super affordable!
Tips to Make the Best Upma
- Always roast the rava – it helps in preventing lumps and gives better texture.
- Use ghee instead of oil for that authentic South Indian taste.
- Add a handful of roasted cashews or peanuts for crunch.
- Want a twist? Try Tomato Upma, Bread Upma or Vermicelli Upma!
- Don’t forget the fresh coriander and lemon – it adds so much freshness to the dish.
Upma for Kids and Busy Women
For all the busy mamas, office-going ladies, and students out there – Upma is your BFF. You can prep the veggies in advance and cook this in just 15-20 mins. It’s soft, non-spicy and filling – even toddlers love it! Pair it with some coconut chutney or pickle for that extra yumminess.
Final Thoughts
Upma is truly a comfort food that brings both health and taste to your plate. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, save time, or feed your family something wholesome – this simple South Indian dish will never disappoint.
So, next time you’re wondering what to cook for breakfast, remember the humble Upma – quick, easy and full of desi flavours!
Love Healthy Indian Recipes?
HerDuniya is your go-to place for all things women love – from tasty food recipes, mehndi design, jewellery trends, to fashion & beauty tips, we’ve got it all covered.
Visit HerDuniya for more such easy desi recipes and lifestyle blogs made specially for you. Don’t forget to share this upma recipe with your maa, didi, or bestie!
