7 Fast Microwave Indian Recipes for Busy Nights

6. Rava Upma (Semolina Upma)

Prep: 3 minutes. Cook: 8–10 minutes. Serves 1–2. Toast 3/4 cup rava (semolina) in a dry microwave-safe dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring once, until it smells nutty—this avoids a raw taste. In another bowl heat 1 tbsp oil with 1/2 tsp mustard seeds and a few curry leaves for 30 seconds. Add 1 small chopped onion, 1 chopped carrot, and a pinch of turmeric; microwave 60–90 seconds until vegetables soften. Stir in toasted rava, 1 1/4 cups hot water, and salt; cover and microwave for 3–4 minutes. Fluff with a fork and finish with lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Upma is comforting and light; add roasted peanuts or a spoon of ghee to make it more filling. Leftover upma reheats well—sprinkle water and microwave for 30–60 seconds to refresh texture.