Vegetable Upma is a classic South Indian comfort dish made from roasted semolina (rava or sooji), gently cooked with aromatic spices, curry leaves, and a colorful mix of vegetables. Warm, fluffy, and lightly spiced, upma is a staple breakfast and brunch dish across Indian households.

Its beauty lies in its simplicity—humble pantry ingredients coming together to create something deeply satisfying and nourishing.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly comforting. The nutty aroma of roasted semolina, the freshness of vegetables, and the gentle warmth of spices make every spoonful soothing. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home—simple, balanced, and always satisfying.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Traditional South Indian comfort food
• Nutritious, filling, and easy to digest
• Made with simple pantry staples
• Customizable with vegetables and spice levels
• Perfect for breakfast or light meals

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: ~30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~210 calories per serving
• Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Light Main
• Cuisine: South Indian

Ingredients

For Vegetable Upma

• 1 cup semolina (rava / sooji)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon chana dal
• 1 tablespoon urad dal
• 1–2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 8–10 curry leaves
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• ¼ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2½ cups water
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Dry roast semolina until aromatic.
2. Temper spices in oil or ghee.
3. Sauté aromatics and vegetables.
4. Add water and bring to boil.
5. Stir in semolina and cook until fluffy.
6. Finish with lemon and herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Roast semolina: Heat a pan on low and dry roast semolina, stirring constantly until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside.
2. Heat fat: In the same pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat.
3. Temper spices: Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
4. Add dals: Add chana dal and urad dal; sauté until golden.
5. Aromatics: Add green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves.
6. Onion & veggies: Add onion and cook until translucent, then add carrots and peas.
7. Add water: Pour in water and salt; bring to a rolling boil.
8. Add semolina: Reduce heat and slowly add roasted semolina, stirring continuously.
9. Cook: Cover and cook 3–4 minutes until fluffy.
10. Finish: Add lemon juice, garnish with cilantro, and fluff gently.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with coconut chutney
• Pair with pickle or podi (spice powder)
• Enjoy with yogurt on the side
• Sprinkle extra ghee for richness

Recipe Tips

• Always roast semolina to avoid lumps
• Add semolina slowly while stirring
• Use hot water for smoother texture
• Adjust water for softer or firmer upma
• Serve immediately for best texture

Variations

• Rava Upma: Skip vegetables for classic version
• Masala Upma: Add sambar powder or garam masala
• Vegetable-Rich: Add beans, corn, or capsicum
• Protein Boost: Add roasted peanuts or cashews
• Vegan: Use oil instead of ghee

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 2 days
• Freezing: Not recommended (texture changes)
• Reheating: Steam or microwave with a splash of water

Special Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Lid

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is my upma lumpy?
Semolina was added too quickly or water wasn’t boiling.

Q: Can I make upma without onions?
Yes, it tastes great even without onions.

Q: Is upma gluten-free?
No, semolina is made from wheat.

Q: Can I use roasted rava from the store?
Yes, but lightly dry roast again for best flavor.

Conclusion

Vegetable Upma is a timeless South Indian dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Warm, fluffy, and nourishing, it’s perfect for starting the day or enjoying a light, satisfying meal. With its simple ingredients and endless variations, upma is truly a must-try recipe that brings both flavor and comfort to your table.