Turmeric Vegetable Upma
A light and savory breakfast porridge made with semolina and packed with anti-inflammatory turmeric and fresh vegetables. This South Indian classic is ready in under 25 minutes and perfect for a wholesome start to your day.
For 4 servings
Roast the semolina
In a dry pan or kadai, add the semolina and roast over low-medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Stir continuously until it becomes fragrant and feels light. Do not let it change color. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
TIPRoasting the semolina is the secret to a fluffy, non-sticky upma. Don't skip this step!Prepare the tempering
- Heat oil in the same pan over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter.
- Once they pop, add the cumin seeds and curry leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sauté aromatics and vegetables
- Add the finely chopped onion, green chili, and grated ginger to the pan.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped carrots and green peas. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Add water and spices
Stir in the turmeric powder and black pepper. Pour in the water and add salt. Increase the heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
Combine semolina and water
Reduce the heat to low. While stirring the boiling water with one hand, slowly pour in the roasted semolina with the other. Keep stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
TIPContinuous stirring is crucial here to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.Cook and steam the upma
Once all the semolina is added, cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on the lowest heat for 3-4 minutes. The semolina will absorb all the water and become soft and fluffy.
Garnish and serve
Turn off the heat. Let it rest for a minute, then open the lid and gently fluff the upma with a fork. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a non-sticky upma, ensure you roast the semolina well before starting.
- 2The ratio of semolina to water is key. For a softer upma, you can use up to 2 cups of water for 0.5 cup of semolina.
- 3Always add semolina to boiling water, not the other way around, to prevent lumps.
- 4Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or green beans along with the carrots and peas.
- 5A small pinch of sugar can be added with the salt to balance the flavors, though it's optional.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version of vegetable upma is very healthy. It's light, low in calories, and provides sustained energy from semolina. The turmeric offers anti-inflammatory properties, and the vegetables add fiber and vitamins.
