15 Indian Breakfast Bowls That Beat Western Smoothies Every Time

2. Upma

Upma is a savory semolina porridge often made with ghee or oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves, chopped vegetables, and cashews. The crumbly, porridge-like texture makes it comforting and filling, and the addition of vegetables increases fiber and micronutrients that smoothies may lack. The use of whole spices and tempered mustard seeds adds flavor without added sugar, so you avoid the quick blood-sugar spike that many fruit-based smoothies create. To make upma more protein-forward, stir in cooked lentils or a spoon of Greek yogurt on the side. For a gluten-free option, substitute fine rava with semolina alternatives like coarse millet flour or cream-of-rice style millets—these keep the same porridge feel while boosting fiber. Upma cooks in under 20 minutes, making it a reasonable weekday option that offers warmth and satiety. It’s a good example of how an Indian breakfast bowl can combine speed with substance and deliver a more savory start to the day than a sweet smoothie.