Upma is a flavorful and quick South Indian breakfast dish made with rava (semolina) and infused with fragrant seasonings like mustard seeds, dals, curry leaves, and green chilies. Perfect for a busy morning, it also makes a comforting light dinner when paired with sambar, coconut or tomato chutney, or even a touch of sugar.
INGREDIENTS
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup rava (semolina)
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- 4 green chilies, chopped
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ¾ tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp fenugreek seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 tsp chana dal
- ¼ cup oil
- 1 tbsp ghee
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cups water
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Dry Roast the Rava
- Heat a pan over low to medium heat.
- Add the rava and stir continuously until it turns aromatic.
- Once roasted, transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Base
- In the same pan, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.
- Add chana dal and sauté until golden brown.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add chopped onions, minced ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until onions turn soft and golden.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook until tomatoes break down completely.
Step 4: Cook the Upma
- Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a rolling boil.
- Gradually add the roasted rava while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir well until everything combines into a smooth consistency.
- Drizzle in the ghee and mix thoroughly for added richness.
- Cover and let it simmer for 2 minutes on low heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Turn off the heat and fluff the upma with a fork.
- Serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or a sprinkle of sugar.
CHEF’S TIPS FOR THE PERFECT UPMA
✔ Choose the Right Rava: Use Bombay rava for a soft texture or Bansi rava for a coarser feel.
✔ Roast the Rava Well: Ensures a light, non-sticky consistency.
✔ Maintain the Correct Water Ratio: 1:2 for Bombay rava and 1:2.5 for Bansi rava for perfect moistness.
✔ Avoid Lumps: Gradually add rava to boiling water while stirring constantly.
✔ Customize It: Add vegetables, peanuts, or cashews for extra crunch and nutrition.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
- Calories: 418 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamin C: 27mg
Upma is a nutritious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a wholesome breakfast or a light dinner. Try it today and savor the flavors of South India!
