Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Vermicelli vegetable upma


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Nandita Nataraj
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Vermicelli Vegetable Upma is a comforting Indian dish made with whole wheat vermicelli and a medley of vegetables, offering a delicious and wholesome meal.


Ingredients

  • Thin, whole wheat Vermicelli- 2 cups (480 ml)
  • Vegetables like carrots, peas, green beans, potato- 2 cups (480 ml)
  • Oil- 2 tbsp (30 ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • Mustard- 1/2 tsp
  • Cumin seeds- 1/2 tsp
  • Hing or asafotida - A pinch
  • Curry leaves- 2 sprigs
  • Turmeric- 1/4 tsp
  • Green chilli- 1, chopped fine
  • Ghee or clarified butter- 1 tsp (5 ml)
  • Grated fresh coconut- 1 tbsp (15 ml) (optional)
  • Coriander leaves to garnish

Instructions

Roast the Vermicelli:

Heat the ghee in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the vermicelli and cook, stirring often, until it turns a shade darker and smells toasted.

Transfer the vermicelli to a plate and set aside.

If using pre-roasted vermicelli, reduce this step to 30 seconds to 1 minute, just to warm it in the ghee.

Cook the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.

Add the mustard seeds and let them pop.

Add the cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and green chili.

Cook for a few seconds, just until the spices are fragrant.

Add the onion, if using, and cook until softened.

Add the mixed vegetables, turmeric, and salt.

Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring now and then, until the vegetables are nearly cooked. If the pan gets dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoons water.

Add the Vermicelli:

Add the toasted vermicelli back to the skillet.

Pour in 1 1/2 cups hot water to start.

Stir once, cover, and cook over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the vermicelli has absorbed the water and is just cooked.

Check early. Thin vermicelli can soften in only a few minutes.

If the vermicelli is still firm and the pan is dry, add another 1/4 cup hot water and cook briefly.

Finish:

Turn off the heat and let the upma sit covered for 2 minutes.

Fluff with a fork.

Stir in grated coconut and chopped coriander, if using.

Serve warm.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies along with the vegetables.
  • You can substitute ghee with oil for a vegan version.
  • Serve with a side of coconut chutney or yogurt for added flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: South Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 300
  • Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 40
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 5