Breakfast Recipe Veg Ideas for a Healthy Morning Meal

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking to start your day with something nutritious, flavorful, and completely vegetarian? You’ve come to the right place!

A wholesome breakfast sets the tone for the rest of your day, and with this easy, delicious veg breakfast recipe, you’ll be energized and satisfied right through to lunch. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student rushing to class, or simply someone who loves a hearty morning meal, this recipe for Vegetable Upma is sure to become a staple at your table.

Vegetable Upma is a classic South Indian breakfast made from semolina (also known as rava or suji) and a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s quick to cook, easy to customize, and packed with flavor and nutrition.

Plus, it’s light on the stomach yet filling enough to keep you going. If you’re trying to add more veggies to your diet or want a breakfast that’s both healthy and delicious, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
  • Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand – carrots, peas, beans, or even spinach.
  • Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals to fuel your day.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and seasonal produce.
  • Deliciously Satisfying: Fragrant spices and crunchy nuts make every bite irresistible.
  • Vegan & Dairy-Free: Naturally plant-based and suitable for a wide range of diets.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Semolina (rava/suji) 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Onion (finely chopped) 1 medium
Carrot (diced) 1 small
Green beans (chopped) 1/4 cup
Green peas (fresh or frozen) 1/4 cup
Tomato (chopped) 1 small
Ginger (grated) 1/2 inch piece
Green chili (finely chopped) 1 (optional)
Mustard seeds 1/2 tsp
Urad dal (split black gram) 1 tsp
Curry leaves 8-10
Cashew nuts 8-10
Oil 2 tbsp
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander (chopped) 2 tbsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp

Equipment

  • Non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Bowl for prepping vegetables

Instructions

  1. Roast the Semolina: Place the pan on medium heat, add the semolina, and dry roast for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until it turns aromatic and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Tempering: In the same pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal and fry till golden. Toss in cashew nuts, curry leaves, and green chili. Sauté for 1 minute.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add onions and ginger. Sauté till onions are translucent. Add carrots, beans, and peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly soft, then add tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add Water & Simmer: Pour in 2 cups of water. Bring to a gentle boil and add salt to taste.
  5. Cook the Upma: Lower the heat, and slowly add roasted semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens and absorbs the water.
  6. Finish & Garnish: When the upma is soft but not sticky, turn off the heat. Sprinkle fresh coriander and lemon juice. Mix well.
  7. Serve Hot: Serve immediately, garnished with extra coriander and cashews if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Tip: Always roast the semolina well for a non-sticky, fluffy upma.

  • For a protein boost, add roasted peanuts along with cashews.
  • Swap vegetables as per the season or your preference—zucchini, bell pepper, and corn work well.
  • For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of oil (skip for vegan version).
  • Add 1/4 tsp of turmeric for a golden hue and extra antioxidants.
  • If you like it spicy, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of crushed red pepper.
  • Want a softer texture? Increase water by 1/2 cup and cook a minute longer.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 220
Protein 5g
Fat 8g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 3g
Sodium 320mg
Vitamin A 20% DV
Vitamin C 15% DV
Calcium 4% DV
Iron 8% DV

Note: Values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve your vegetable upma piping hot with a side of coconut chutney or Idli Sambar for a traditional South Indian breakfast experience.
  • Pair it with a cup of unsweetened chai or filter coffee for a comforting, energizing meal.
  • If you like a bit of crunch, serve with a handful of roasted papad or Poha on the side.
  • For a complete brunch, add a serving of fresh fruit salad or a glass of Masala Chaas.

Conclusion

Breakfast is more than just a meal—it’s a daily ritual that fuels your mind and body for whatever lies ahead. This Vegetable Upma recipe combines the goodness of grains and vegetables with just the right touch of spices, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a wholesome, plant-based start to their day.

With its quick preparation, endless customization options, and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

Don’t forget to explore other breakfast favorites like Poha, Idli Sambar, and Masala Chaas for more inspiration!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegetable Upma

Description: A quick and nutritious South Indian breakfast made with semolina and mixed vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome start to your day.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 8-10 curry leaves
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
  2. Add chopped onion, green chilies, and curry leaves; sauté for 2 minutes.
  3. Add carrot, green peas, and bell pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add semolina and roast for 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
  5. Pour in water and add salt; stir continuously to avoid lumps.
  6. Cover and cook on low heat until water is absorbed and upma is fluffy.
  7. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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