Veg Upma Recipe Easy and Delicious South Indian Breakfast

Veg Upma is a classic South Indian breakfast dish that has won hearts across India and beyond. It’s a comforting, warm, and wholesome semolina-based savory porridge that’s both filling and nutritious.

Made with a medley of fresh vegetables and tempered with aromatic spices, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast or a light yet satisfying snack, veg upma is an excellent choice.

Its versatility allows you to customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to incorporate more greens and nutrients into your diet.

In this detailed recipe, you’ll learn how to make veg upma with simple ingredients and easy steps, ensuring a delicious and authentic result every time. Plus, we’ll share some handy tips and variations to tweak the recipe to your liking.

Ready to cook up some comforting veg upma? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg upma recipe is beloved for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick and straightforward to prepare, perfect for busy mornings.

The combination of semolina and fresh vegetables creates a nutritious and well-balanced meal that’s light on the stomach but satisfying enough to keep you energized for hours.

The tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and ginger adds a burst of traditional South Indian flavors, making the dish aromatic and inviting. Plus, this recipe is highly adaptable—you can add your favorite veggies or even nuts for added crunch.

It’s also vegan and gluten-free if you use gluten-free semolina alternatives, catering to various dietary needs.

For an even broader culinary adventure, you might want to explore other delicious vegetable-based recipes like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or try a sweet ending with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina (rava/sooji)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup chopped beans
• 2 1/2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Equipment

• Non-stick pan or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Bowl for rinsing vegetables
• Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

1. Dry roast the semolina: Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the semolina and dry roast it, stirring continuously until it turns light golden and emits a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the tempering: In the same pan, heat the oil or ghee. Add the mustard seeds and wait until they start to pop. Then add the urad dal and chana dal. Fry until the dals turn golden brown.
3. Add aromatics and vegetables: Toss in the chopped green chilies, grated ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then add diced carrots, beans, and green peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Add water and salt: Pour in 2 1/2 cups of water and add salt to taste. Bring it to a boil.
5. Cook the semolina: Lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the roasted semolina to the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and the semolina is cooked through. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Final touches: Once the upma thickens and the water is absorbed, turn off the heat. Add lemon juice if using, and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
7. Serve hot: Serve the veg upma warm, ideally with coconut chutney or your favorite pickle for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

To avoid lumps in your upma, always add semolina gradually to boiling water while stirring continuously.

For extra texture, you can add roasted cashews or peanuts along with the mustard seeds during tempering. This adds a delightful crunch and richness to the dish.

If you prefer a creamier upma, add a little more water or a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking. You can also experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or corn depending on availability.

For a healthier twist, try using broken wheat (dalia) instead of semolina, though cooking time will increase slightly. Veg upma also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of yogurt on the side for added creaminess and probiotics.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Veg upma tastes delicious on its own but can be elevated with a few simple accompaniments. Serve it with coconut chutney, which provides a creamy, nutty contrast.

For a tangy kick, pair it with tomato or mint chutney.

A side of hot sambar or a bowl of plain yogurt complements the upma beautifully, adding moisture and layers of flavor. For a snack option, sprinkle some sev (crispy chickpea noodles) on top just before serving.

If you love exploring more vegetable-based dishes, don’t miss out on the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more inspiration.

Conclusion

Veg upma is a comforting, nutritious, and versatile dish that deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. Its quick preparation and the ability to customize with seasonal vegetables make it a perfect breakfast or snack option.

The balance of aromatic spices, wholesome semolina, and fresh veggies creates a delightful flavor profile that appeals to all age groups.

Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned foodie, this veg upma recipe is simple enough to master yet satisfying enough to enjoy any time of day. Give it a try and transform your breakfast table with this vibrant, wholesome dish.

For more delightful recipes that incorporate fresh vegetables and bold flavors, check out our collection of Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals and Raw Vegan Recipes PDF for Easy and Healthy Meals.

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