Upma is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customise it with your favourite vegetables and spices. The dish is typically prepared by sautéing vegetables like onions, carrots, peas, and bell peppers with aromatic spices and then adding roasted semolina to create a light and fluffy texture. It is known for its simplicity, heartiness, and delicious flavours. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast option, this Vegetable Upma recipe made using 7 Star Semolina will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup 7 Star Semolina
• 2 Tablespoons Oil
• 1 Teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• 1 Teaspoon Urad Dal
• 1 Teaspoon Chana Dal
• 1 Sprig Curry Leaves
• 1 Dry Red Chilli 
• 1 Tablespoon Ginger
• 1 ½ Onion chopped, approx 1 Cup
• 2 Green Chillies chopped
• ⅓ Cup chopped Carrot
• ¼ Cup chopped Beans
• 1 Tomato chopped, approx ½ Cup
• ⅓ Cup Green Peas
• 3 Cups Water
• 1 ½ Teaspoon Salt
• ½ Teaspoon Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Ghee
• 2 Tablespoon Coriander Leaves

How to Make

Roasting the Semolina

1. Heat a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the semolina to the pan.
3. Roast the semolina on low flame for 3-4 minutes until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
4. Stir constantly to ensure even heat distribution.
5. Once the semolina is roasted, switch off the flame.
6. Transfer the roasted semolina to a plate and let it cool.

Making Upma

1. Heat oil in a kadai or a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chana dal and urad dal, and fry until they turn slightly golden (avoid browning them completely).
4. Add curry leaves and dried red chilli, and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, over low heat.
5. Now, add ginger, onions, and green chilli, and sauté until the onions become translucent.
6. Add carrot, beans, and green peas, and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Pour in 3 cups of water and add sugar and salt. Increase the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil.
8. Once the water is boiling, reduce the flame to low.
9. Gradually add the roasted semolina while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
10. Cover the pan and let the Upma steam for 3 to 4 minutes on low heat.
11. Finally, add ghee (clarified butter) and chopped coriander leaves, and give it a good mix.
12. Switch off the flame and your Vegetable Upma is ready to be served.
13. Serve the Upma with coconut chutney or pickle and curd for a delicious breakfast or meal.