Organic Millet Upma Recipe

By Organic Mandya · Oct 30, 2025 · 5 Minutes

 A Wholesome Breakfast that’s Light, Nutritious, and 100% Clean

Upma isn’t just breakfast. It’s that comforting, homely dish that quietly powers millions of Indian mornings. But what if you could make it even better – lighter, gluten-free, and packed with minerals?

That’s where Millet Upma comes in. Made with organic millets, fresh vegetables, and golden ghee, this dish is your perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

If you’re looking to swap suji with something healthier or want a clean, organic breakfast that keeps you full and energetic, this recipe will hit the spot.

Let’s make Organic Millet Upma a dish that’s simple, soulful, and good for you from the inside out.


What Makes Millet Upma So Special

Unlike regular upma, this version uses millet (varagu), an ancient grain rich in iron, protein, and fibre. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to digest, and supports sustained energy.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Made entirely with Organic Mandya ingredients

  • Free from polished suji and refined oil

  • Cooked in pure desi cow ghee for aroma and nourishment

  • Perfect for diabetics, weight-watchers, and anyone looking for a wholesome start

Here’s how it compares to your regular upma:

Feature

Regular Suji Upma

Organic Millet Upma

Base Ingredient

Refined suji (semolina)

Organic Millet – rich in fiber and minerals

Cooking Fat

Refined oil

Organic Desi Cow Ghee – pure and aromatic

Fiber Content

Low

4x more dietary fiber

Digestibility

Heavy and processed

Light, gluten-free, easy to digest

Nutrition

Basic carbohydrates

Balanced protein, iron, and magnesium


Ingredients You’ll Need

Use this as your organic shopping list — every ingredient is available at Organic Mandya.

Ingredient

Quantity

Organic Millet

1 cup

Organic Desi Cow Ghee

2 tablespoons

Mustard Seeds

½ teaspoon

Urad Dal

1 teaspoon

Chana Dal

1 teaspoon

Onion (finely chopped)

1

Green Chili (slit)

2

Curry Leaves

8–10

Water

2 cups

Salt

To taste

Lemon Juice

1 teaspoon


Step-by-Step Recipe for Organic Millet Upma

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Millet

  • Wash the organic millet 2–3 times in clean water.

  • Soak for about 15–20 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

  • Drain before using.

Pro Tip: Soaking millets improves digestibility and helps them cook faster.


Step 2: Temper the Spices

  • Heat organic desi cow ghee in a thick-bottomed pan.

  • Add mustard seeds and let them pop.

  • Then add urad dal and chana dal and sauté till golden.

  • Add curry leaves, green chilli, and onion; cook till the onions turn translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables (Optional)

  • If you like your upma hearty, toss in diced carrots, peas, or beans.

  • Sauté for 2–3 minutes for added texture and colour.

Step 4: Cook the Millet

  • Pour in 2 cups of water and bring it to a gentle boil.

  • Add salt to taste.

  • Stir in the soaked millet slowly while mixing continuously.

  • Cover and cook on low flame for 10–12 minutes until all water is absorbed.

Watch for the signs:

  • The millet grains become fluffy and soft.

  • The upma starts leaving the sides of the pan.


Step 5: Finish with Ghee and Lemon

  • Add a teaspoon of organic ghee for that final glossy touch.

  • Drizzle fresh lemon juice.

  • Mix gently and let it sit covered for 2 minutes.

Serve warm with a bowl of organic coconut chutney or pickle for the perfect breakfast.


Storage and Shelf Life

Storage Method

Shelf Life

Tips

Airtight container (room temperature)

6–8 hours

Best consumed fresh

Refrigerator

Up to 2 days

Sprinkle a little water and reheat before serving

 

Tips to Perfect Your Millet Upma

  • Always roast or soak millets before cooking for the best texture.

  • Add vegetables and nuts to make it a complete meal.

  • Don’t overcook; you want the grains fluffy, not sticky.

  • Ghee adds both flavour and moisture, so don’t skip it.


Health Benefits of Millet Upma

Ingredient

Benefit

Millet

Rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants

Organic Ghee

Boosts metabolism and supports digestion

Urad Dal & Chana Dal

Provide protein and improve gut health

Curry Leaves

Aid digestion and add aroma

Lemon Juice

Enhances vitamin C and flavor


Pair It With

Make your millet breakfast even better by pairing it with:

  • Organic Coconut Chutney for freshness

  • Organic Pickle for tangy balance

  • Herbal Tea or Filter Coffee for a complete South Indian morning


Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Nutrient

Approx. Value

Calories

210 kcal

Protein

6 g

Fat

9 g

Carbs

25 g

Fiber

3.5 g


Why Choose Organic Mandya for Your Ingredients

At Organic Mandya, purity isn’t just a label; it’s a promise.
Every millet, every drop of ghee, and every grain of dal comes from farmers who believe in sustainable, chemical-free farming.

  • Our millets are sun-dried and unpolished.

  • Our ghee is made from grass-fed desi cows.

  • Our spices and pulses are single-origin, rich in aroma, and unprocessed.

When you choose Organic Mandya, you aren’t just cooking. You’re contributing to a cleaner, fairer food system.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make millet upma without soaking the millet?
Yes, but soaking improves the texture and reduces cooking time.

Q2. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Carrots, beans, peas, or even spinach go perfectly.

Q3. Is millet gluten-free?
Yes, completely. It’s ideal for gluten-free diets.

Q4. What’s the best substitute for ghee if I want a vegan version?
Use organic coconut oil instead. It adds a light, tropical aroma.


Conclusion

This Organic Millet Upma Recipe is your shortcut to a healthy, flavourful, and guilt-free breakfast.
Every spoonful brings together the nutty flavour of millet, the warmth of ghee, and the comfort of traditional Indian cooking minus the refined stuff.

Make it a part of your weekly breakfast rotation. Your body (and taste buds) will thank you.


 start to your day.