Vegetable Rava Upma Recipe (Savory Semolina Breakfast Pudding)
Vegetable Rava Upma is a beloved traditional South Indian breakfast dish made with semolina (rava) and cooked with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is often enjoyed as a light and nourishing start to the day. It’s popularly known as Chow Chow Bath in Karnataka, where it is served alongside rice-based dishes. At home, we love pairing it with freshly brewed filter coffee, while my kids also enjoy it with bananas, yogurt, and chutney for extra flavor.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semolina (Rava) | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, grated |
| Green Chilies | 2, finely chopped |
| Curry Leaves | 5-6, finely chopped |
| Carrot | 1, peeled and finely chopped |
| Green Beans | 12, finely chopped |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Split White Urad Dal | 1 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | ¼ tsp |
| Oil | As required |
| Ghee | 3 tbsp |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
First, steam the chopped carrot and green beans with a little water until they are tender. Once done, drain the water and set the vegetables aside. -
Boil the Water:
In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, adding salt and sugar for seasoning. Once the water starts to boil, remove it from the heat and set aside. -
Cooking the Spices:
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and split urad dal. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds, releasing their aroma. -
Add Aromatics:
To the pan, add chopped onion, grated ginger, asafoetida, curry leaves, and chopped green chilies. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent. -
Roast the Semolina (Rava):
Add the semolina (rava) to the pan and sauté well, roasting it for a few minutes. Stir constantly to ensure it gets lightly toasted but doesn’t brown. -
Combine with Boiling Water:
Gradually pour the boiled water into the semolina mixture while continuously stirring with a spoon to avoid any lumps. Once the water is fully incorporated, reduce the heat. -
Simmer the Upma:
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the upma to cook for about 10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. -
Final Touches:
Once the upma has cooked, add the steamed vegetables, ghee, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir to combine well. Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Serve Hot:
Serve your hot Vegetable Rava Upma with a side of coconut chutney and a cup of filter coffee for an authentic South Indian breakfast experience. You can also serve it with yogurt, bananas, or any chutney of your choice to enhance the flavor.
Enjoy the delicious, nutritious, and comforting Vegetable Rava Upma that’s perfect for starting your day on a wholesome note!
