Vermicelli Upma is a light, healthy, and quick South Indian breakfast recipe prepared using roasted vermicelli, vegetables, and spices. This simple recipe is ideal for busy mornings and is nutritious as well as filling.
In this step-by-step recipe guide, discover how to prepare Vermicelli Upma using easy ingredients readily available in your kitchen. It’s the ideal recipe whether you need a quick snack, a lunchbox recipe, or a healthy vegetarian breakfast. Read on to find out variations, expert tips, and the mistakes to avoid in making this scrumptious upma. To top it all off, we’ll take you through the nutritional advantages and serving ideas to upgrade your breakfast menu.
Keep yourself energized and set your day off on the right note with this yummy vermicelli upma recipe that’s prepared in only 20 minutes!
Vermicelli Upma – A Light, Healthy Start to Your Day
Vermicelli Upma is an Indian breakfast dish prepared using thin roasted noodles known as vermicelli (or seviyan) along with vegetables and mild spices. A light and healthy dish originating in South India, it has become a favorite nationwide because of its ease of preparation, light texture, and health benefits.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a health-conscious food lover, this Upma offers a perfect blend of taste and nutrition with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Required (serves 2–3):
1 cup roasted vermicelli
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
1 small carrot (chopped)
¼ cup green peas
2 green chilies (slit)
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp urad dal (optional)
5–6 curry leaves
1 tbsp oil or ghee
Salt to taste
2 cups water
Coriander leaves (for garnish)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Steps to prepare step by step
Step 1: Roast the Vermicelli (if not pre-roasted)
Dry roast plain vermicelli on low heat until golden brown and set it aside. Pre-roasted vermicelli can be taken directly.
Step 2: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Add urad dal and sauté until it gets golden. Add green chilies and curry leaves.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Vegetables
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Add peas, carrots, and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes till vegetables become soft.
Step 4: Add Water and Let It Boil
Add 2 cups of water. Taste with salt. When water begins boiling, add roasted vermicelli slowly, stirring well to prevent lumps.
Step 5: Cook and Steam
Place the lid on the pan and allow vermicelli to cook on low flame for 5–7 minutes. Stir every now and then. After water gets absorbed and vermicelli becomes soft, turn off the heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Add lemon juice and coriander leaves. Mix gently and serve hot!
Nutritional Benefits of Vermicelli Upma
This Breakfast Recipe is not only delicious — it’s nutritious too:
Low in fat and perfect for weight-watchers
High in fiber when filled with vegetables
May be prepared with whole wheat vermicelli for added health benefits
Light on the stomach, but satisfying
It’s also an excellent method to sneak vegetables into your child’s diet, so it’s a win-win meal for the entire family.
Vermicelli Upma Variations
1. Tomato Vermicelli Upma
Add chopped tomatoes and sauté with onions for the added zing.
2. Lemon Sevai
A variation that omits vegetables — merely roasted vermicelli that’s flavored with lemon juice, mustard seeds, and curry leaves.
3. Millet or Ragi Vermicelli Upma
Replace wheat vermicelli with millets to make a healthier, gluten-free alternative.
4. Masala Vermicelli Upma
Add a kick of garam masala or sambhar powder for a punch of South Indian flavor.
5. Paneer or Egg Vermicelli Upma
For a protein boost, toss in scrambled eggs or paneer crumbles at the end.
Perfect Vermicelli Upma Tips
Stir constantly while adding vermicelli to boiling water to prevent lumps.
Don’t overcook — soggy upma loses texture.
Use ghee over oil for a richer flavor.
For additional crunch, include roasted peanuts or cashews.
Spice level according to choice.
Avoid These Mistakes
Not roasting vermicelli: Causes sticky and mushy texture.
Too much water: Use a 1:2 ratio (1 cup vermicelli to 2 cups of water).
Skipping vegetables: Lowers taste and nutrition value.
Overcooking veggies: Leaves the dish dull and mushy.
When to Serve Vermicelli Upma?
Breakfast – Light, healthy, and revitalizing
Tiffin box – Remains soft and non-sticky even after hours
Evening snack – Easy and satisfying
Light dinner – When you need something easy to digest
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftover upma in an airtight container in the fridge for a maximum of 1 day.
Add a bit of water and microwave for 30–60 seconds before serving.
Avoid freezing – texture changes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with coconut chutney, pickle, or a dollop of curd.
Savor it with a cup of chai or filter coffee for a genuine South Indian breakfast experience.
Fun Fact
In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Vermicelli Upma is often referred to as “Sevai Upma” or “Semiya Upma” and is a Sunday breakfast staple in most homes.
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