How To Make Instant Mixed Vegetable Upma; The Perfect South Indian Breakfast

Upma, a humble yet satisfying South Indian breakfast dish, is loved for its comforting texture, versatility, and ease of preparation. When made with mixed vegetables, it becomes a wholesome meal packed with nutrients and flavour. Instant Mixed Vegetable Upma is a perfect choice for busy mornings or quick evening meals, offering the goodness of semolina (rava) combined with colourful vegetables and aromatic spices. This version requires minimal effort, cooks within minutes, and keeps you full for hours. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or seeking a healthy meal idea, this dish will surely become a regular favourite.

Why Choose Instant Mixed Vegetable Upma

Instant upma stands out as a go-to dish for those who value taste, nutrition, and time. Unlike traditional breakfast items that require elaborate preparation, this recipe uses roasted semolina that cooks in under 10 minutes. Adding mixed vegetables not only enhances flavour and colour but also boosts its fibre and vitamin content. It’s light on the stomach yet provides sustained energy — ideal for children, working professionals, and anyone looking for a balanced start to the day. Moreover, upma can be customised easily by adjusting spices or adding nuts and herbs for extra flavour.

Ingredients Required

To make a delicious serving of Instant Mixed Vegetable Upma, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina (rava or sooji), roasted
  
  
  
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)

1 teaspoon chana dal (split Bengal gram)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1–2 green chillies, slit or chopped

1 teaspoon grated ginger

¼ cup carrots, finely diced

¼ cup green peas

¼ cup beans, chopped

¼ cup capsicum (optional)

2½ cups water

Salt to taste

A few curry leaves

Fresh coriander for garnish

A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Step-by-Step Method to Prepare Instant Upma

1. Roast the Semolina

If you are not using pre-roasted semolina, dry roast it in a pan over medium heat until it turns light golden and emits a nutty aroma. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Transfer it to a plate and let it cool while you prepare the seasoning.

2. Prepare the Tempering

Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter, followed by urad dal and chana dal. Fry until they turn golden brown. Add curry leaves, green chillies, and grated ginger. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.

3. Add the Vegetables

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then add carrots, peas, beans, and capsicum. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but not mushy. This step gives the upma its vibrant look and nutritional edge.

4. Add Water and Seasoning

Pour 2½ cups of water into the pan and add salt according to taste. Allow the water to come to a boil. If you prefer a softer texture, you can add a little more water. For a slightly grainy upma, keep the water proportion as given.

5. Add Semolina and Cook

Once the water begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the roasted semolina while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and absorbs all the water. Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes until the upma becomes fluffy and soft.

6. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the flame, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and garnish with freshly chopped coriander. Serve hot with coconut chutney, pickle, or a cup of steaming tea. The result is a perfectly textured, flavourful upma with bits of crunchy vegetables and aromatic spices.

Tips for Perfect Upma

• Always roast the semolina well to achieve a non-sticky, fluffy texture.
  
  
  
• Adjust the quantity of water based on your preferred consistency.
  
  
  
• You can add roasted cashew nuts or peanuts for extra crunch.

For a richer taste, cook the upma entirely in ghee instead of oil.

Leftover upma can be shaped into cutlets by adding mashed potato and shallow-frying them.

Health Benefits of Mixed Vegetable Upma

This dish is both light and nourishing. Semolina is rich in carbohydrates and protein, providing sustained energy throughout the day. The inclusion of vegetables adds essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre, aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Upma is low in fat, making it a heart-friendly breakfast option. When prepared with minimal oil and fresh produce, it becomes a balanced meal suitable for all age groups.

Instant Mixed Vegetable Upma proves that a healthy breakfast doesn’t have to be time-consuming or bland. With a few pantry staples and everyday vegetables, you can prepare a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Its mild, comforting flavours and colourful appearance make it a family favourite. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a quick evening snack, this dish promises to brighten your day and nourish your body with every spoonful.