Craving something warm, flavorful, and fast? This upma recipe is your go-to Indian breakfast—made with semolina (rava/sooji), packed with comfort and ready in minutes. It’s the perfect blend of health and taste, especially on busy mornings. Whether you’re new to Indian food or already love it, Upma is a delicious way to start your day.

This recipe is included in our collection of 7 Time-Saving Breakfast Ideas for Busy Mornings. For additional fantastic recipes, be sure to visit our blog!
Ingredients for Upma recipe

- 1 cup semolina (rava/sooji)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 8-10 curry leaves (optional)
- 2.5 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander (for garnish)
- Lemon juice (optional)
Optinel If you like:
- Chopped Onions
- Chopped Tomato
- Green Pees
Steps to Make Upma
1. Roast the Semolina (rava/sooji)

To begin the upma recipe, heat a dry pan and roast the semolina (rava/sooji) on medium flame. Stir continuously until it turns lightly golden and releases a nutty aroma. Once done, set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Tempering

Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add mustard seeds, and once they splutter, add urad dal (if using), chopped onions, green/red chilies, ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté until onions are soft.
3. Add Water and Season

Pour in 2.5 cups of water and season it with salt. Let it come to a gentle boil over medium heat, allowing the flavors to blend before adding the semolina.
4. Add Semolina

Now, gradually add the roasted semolina to the boiling water while continuously stirring to prevent any lumps. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your upma recipe.
5. Cook Until Done

Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until the water is fully absorbed and the upma is soft and fluffy.
6. Finish and Serve – The Upma recipe is complete.

Once cooked, garnish the upma with freshly chopped coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish right away.
Conclusion
The Upma recipe is a simple yet flavorful Indian breakfast that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s ideal for those looking for a warm, satisfying, and easy-to-make vegetarian dish with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty start to your day!

This recipe is part of our ‘Time-Saving Breakfast Ideas’ series. Click here to read the full blog.