Upma is a quick, nutritious meal that bursts with flavor and texture. This loved South Indian dish, made from the whole from roasted semolina (rava/suji), combines fragrant spices, fresh veggies, and a touch of lemon. Ideal for busy mornings, comfortable brunches, or maybe a mild snack, this recipe is sure to win hearts .
Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina (rava/suji)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing) (optional)
- 8–10 curry leaves
- 2–3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 cup blended veggies( carrots, peas, beans, and bell peppers )
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts
- Salt to taste
- Five cups water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Dry Roast the Semolina :
- Take a heavy-bottomed pan and heat over medium heat.
- Add the semolina and roast it lightly, stirring continuously until it turns a golden and releases a nutty aroma.
- Remove the the roasted semolina in a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Tempering :
- In the equal pan, warmness the oil or ghee. Once the oil is hot , add the mustard seeds.
- When they begin to pop, add cumin seeds, a pinch of asafoetida, and the curry leaves.
- Sauté Aromatics & Vegetables :
- Toss inside the finely chopped green chilies, grated ginger, and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are as soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped combined greens and cook for approximately 3–4 mins until they’re smooth but crisp. For texture, fry some peanuts in the same pan.
- Incorporate Water & Boil :
- Pour some water and season with salt.
- Allow the mixture to come to a boil, ensuring that the vegetables are properly-cooked .
- Combine with Semolina :
- Slowly sprinkle the roasted semolina into the boiling water while stirring constantly to save you lumps from forming.
- Continue stirring till the semolina absorbs all the water and the upma attains a smooth, cohesive consistency.
- Adjust water or semolina as needed for your preferred texture.
- Final Touches & Garnish :
- Remove the upma from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro .
- When the upma is cooked, pour some lemon juice to bring out the flavors. .
- Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your upma piping warm, paired with:
- Coconut chutney for a groovy, creamy taste.
- A bowl of sambar for an extra layer of spice.
- A simple serving of plain yogurt for a soothing end.