Vegetable Upma is a delightful South Indian breakfast dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Made with cream of wheat (semolina or rava), an assortment of fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, this savory upma is a great way to start your day on a healthy note.

Table of Contents

Vegetable Upma Ingredients:

1 cup rava (cream of wheat/semolina)
2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)

1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon chana dal (split Bengal gram)

1 teaspoon urad dal (split black lentils)
12 cashew nuts (optional)
1/3 cup finely chopped onions

1 teaspoon finely chopped green chili
1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
1 sprig of fresh curry leaves

2 1/2 cups water
Salt to taste
2 teaspoons sugar (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
Vegetables of your choice (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.), finely chopped

Vegetable Upma Instructions:

Begin by dry roasting the rava in a pan over low heat until it turns aromatic and light golden in color. Set it aside to cool.

Heat oil or ghee in the same pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Next, add the cumin seeds, chana dal, urad dal, and cashew nuts (if using). Sauté for a minute or two until the dals turn golden brown and the cashews are lightly toasted.
Add the finely chopped onions, green chili, ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent.

Now it’s time to add your choice of vegetables. You can use a combination of carrots, peas, bell peppers, or any other veggies you like. Sauté the vegetables for a couple of minutes to slightly soften them.
Pour in the 2 1/2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Season with salt and sugar (if using) to taste.
Once the water is boiling, gradually add the roasted rava while continuously stirring with a whisk or a ladle. This will help prevent the formation of lumps.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the upma simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the rava is cooked through and has absorbed the water.
After 5 minutes, remove the pan from heat and let the upma rest for a few minutes. This resting period will allow the upma to firm up slightly and develop its characteristic texture.
Finally, garnish the upma with freshly chopped coriander leaves, giving it a burst of freshness and aroma.

Serve the piping hot Vegetable Upma in bowls or plates, accompanied by a side of coconut chutney or pickle. The combination of the savory semolina, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.

Vegetable Upma is not only a delicious and comforting breakfast option but also a nutritious one. The semolina provides a good dose of complex carbohydrates, while the vegetables offer a range of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The addition of dals and nuts adds protein and healthy fats, making this dish a well-rounded meal.

Upma is also incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different vegetable combinations, spices, and even incorporate proteins like paneer or boiled eggs to suit your taste preferences. It’s a dish that can be easily customized to fit your dietary needs or preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a quick snack, or a light meal, Vegetable Upma is a fantastic choice. With its simple preparation and delectable flavor, this South Indian delicacy is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.