Mixed Vegetable Rava Upma
A classic South Indian breakfast made with roasted semolina, colorful vegetables, and a simple tempering of spices. It's savory, wholesome, and comes together in under 30 minutes for a perfect start to the day.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPRoasting the rava well is the key to a fluffy, non-sticky upma. Don't skip this step! - 2
Step 2
- a.Heat oil in the same pan over medium heat.
- b.Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- c.Add the urad dal and chana dal. Sauté until they turn light golden.
- d.Add the curry leaves and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds until the leaves are crisp.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the chopped onion, grated ginger, and slit green chilies to the pan.
- b.Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- c.Add the diced carrots and green peas. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- 4
Step 4
TIPUsing hot water helps in cooking the upma faster and prevents lumps. - 5
Step 5
- 6
Step 6
- 7
Step 7
- 8
Step 8
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a softer upma, you can use a water to rava ratio of 2.5:1. For a firmer texture, stick to 2:1.
- 2Always add rava to boiling water slowly while stirring to ensure a lump-free texture.
- 3Feel free to add other vegetables like beans, corn, or bell peppers.
- 4If your rava is pre-roasted, you can skip the first step and save time.
- 5A final drizzle of ghee adds a wonderful aroma and richness to the upma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
To make this upma vegan, simply skip the final addition of ghee or replace it with a teaspoon of coconut oil.
high proteinHigh protein
For a protein boost, add 1/4 cup of cooked chickpeas or edamame along with the other vegetables.
quickQuick
Use pre-roasted rava (sooji) available in stores to cut down the preparation time significantly.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce or omit the green chilies to make it less spicy for children. You can also add a little more sugar to appeal to their palate.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Energy
Semolina is rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick and sustained source of energy to start your day.
Rich in Fiber
The addition of mixed vegetables increases the dietary fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Packed with Vitamins
Vegetables like carrots and peas provide essential vitamins like Vitamin A and K, which are important for vision and overall health.
Low in Fat
This recipe uses minimal oil, making it a low-fat breakfast choice that is good for heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a healthy and balanced breakfast option. Semolina provides carbohydrates for energy, while the vegetables add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is also light on the stomach and easy to digest.