Upma variations: 5 must-try street breakfasts in India
What's the story
A popular South Indian breakfast dish, upma is made with semolina and spices. It is a staple in many Indian households and is loved for its simplicity and versatility. However, street vendors across India have added their own twist to this classic dish, giving it unique flavors and textures. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the vibrant lanes of Chennai, these upma variations are a testament to India's diverse culinary landscape.
Mumbai twist
Mumbai's masala upma delight
In Mumbai, upma gets a spicy makeover with the addition of local masalas. This version is usually prepared with a mix of semolina, mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and peanuts. The addition of peanuts adds a crunchy texture, while the masalas give it a fiery kick. Vendors often serve this upma with coconut chutney or lemon wedges for an extra zing.
Chennai style
Chennai's coconut-infused upma
Chennai's version of upma is famous for its coconut infusion. Here, grated coconut is mixed into the semolina while cooking, giving it a rich flavor and creamy texture. The addition of fresh coriander leaves and lime juice elevates the taste even more. This variant is usually served with tangy tomato chutney or spicy pickle on the side.
Kolkata Fusion
Kolkata's sweet and savory upma
In Kolkata, street vendors serve an interesting sweet and savory version of upma. This one has sugar or jaggery mixed in with the semolina along with traditional spices like cardamom and cinnamon. The sweetness balances out the heat from green chilies used in the preparation. It is usually garnished with fried cashews or raisins.
Bangalore style
Bangalore's vegetable-loaded upma
Bangalore's street food scene offers a vegetable-loaded version of upma that caters to health-conscious eaters. This variant has a generous amount of chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, mixed in with the semolina. The addition of vegetables not only adds nutritional value but also makes the dish colorful and appetizing. It is usually served with a side of fresh yogurt to balance the spices.
Hyderabad flavor
Hyderabad's spicy rava upma
Hyderabad's spicy rava upma is a must-try for anyone looking for bold flavors in their breakfast. Made with roasted semolina cooked in ghee with onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, and tamarind pulp, this dish is nothing short of a flavor explosion. Topped with crispy fried onions, it is served hot from makeshift stalls all over the city.