Simple & Quick Upma Recipe – Healthy Indian Breakfast in 20 Minutes
Last Updated on April 23, 2026 by Fatima
Upma is a savory South Indian breakfast dish made from roasted semolina (rava/sooji) cooked with aromatic spices, vegetables, and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and lentils. This quick, wholesome dish is a staple in Indian households, known for its light yet satisfying texture and vibrant flavors. Ready in just 20 minutes, Upma is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, customizable with veggies like carrots, peas, or beans, and often served with coconut chutney or pickle. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to comfort food for all ages!
Popular across regions with slight variations, Upma is perfect for busy mornings, light dinners, or even as a snack. Its soft, fluffy texture and comforting taste make it loved by both kids and adults alike.
Simple & Quick Upma Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup rava (semolina/suji)
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 green chili (chopped)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal
- 8-10 curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- Coriander leaves & lemon for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a pan or kadai .Add rava and rast for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
- Stir continuously so that rava should become aromatic and crunchy.
- Remove from the flame and keep aside.
- Heat oil in a pan ,splutter mustard seeds then add urad dal, curry leaves, chilies, and onion.
- Saute until onion turn translucent.
- Add water , salt and allow it to boil.
- Slowly add roasted rava.
- Stir continuously to avoid any lumps.
- When almost all the water is absorbs low the flame and cover the lid for one minute.
- cook until soft.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle coriander leaves. Mix well.
Notes
- Avoid lumps: Always add semolina to boiling water, not cold water.
- Texture control: For softer upma, use 2.5 cups water. For fluffier, stick to 2 cups.
- Don’t skip roasting: Raw semolina makes upma pasty. Roasting gives that nutty, non‑sticky texture.
- Make it richer: Add 1 tsp ghee at the end while fluffing.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why is my upma sticky or mushy?
Usually because the semolina wasn’t roasted enough, or you added it to lukewarm water. Always roast until fragrant and use boiling water.
Can I make upma without onions ?
Yes – simply skip the onion. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for a similar flavor.
How to reheat leftover upma?
Sprinkle a little water, microwave for 30 seconds, or reheat in a covered pan on low heat.
More Quick Breakfast Ideas
Easy Poha Recipe (Flattened Rice)