Arisi Rava Upma | Soft and Fluffy Rice Rava Breakfast Recipe

Arisi Rava Upma, also known as Rice Rava Upma is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish made from coarsely ground rice. It is light, flavorful, and gluten-free, making it a perfect alternative to wheat-based upma. This dish is mildly spiced and can be prepared quickly, ideal for busy mornings or a simple dinner.

You may also like: Samba Rava Upma, Sorrakkai Dosa, Ragi Puttu,  Samai Dosai

Ingredients for making Arisi Rava Upma

Arisi rava (rice rava) – 1 cup

Water – 2½ cups

Oil – 2 tbsp

Mustard seeds – ½ tsp

Urad dal – 1 tsp

Chana dal – 1 tsp

Green chilies – 2, finely chopped

Ginger – 1 tsp, finely chopped

Curry leaves – 8–10

Onion – 1 small, finely chopped 

Salt – to taste

Fresh coriander leaves – 1 tbsp, chopped

Grated coconut – 1 tbsp (optional)

Preparation Steps for Arisi Rava Upma

1. Heat a pan on medium flame. Add the arisi rava and dry roast it for 3–4 minutes until it turns slightly aromatic. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. In the same pan, heat oil.  Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. 

3. Add urad dal and chana dal; sauté until golden brown.

4. Add chopped green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves. Then add onions and sauté until translucent.

5. Pour 2½ cups of water into the pan and add salt. Bring the water to a boil.

6. Gradually add the roasted arisi rava while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

7. Reduce the flame to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until the rava absorbs all the water and becomes soft.

8. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 2 minutes.

9. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Mix gently and serve hot.

10. Optionally, sprinkle grated coconut on top for added flavor.

Serve hot with coconut chutney, groundnut chutney or sambar.

Tips for Perfect Arisi Rava Upma

Roasting the rava prevents it from becoming sticky.

Water ratio is crucial; use 2½ cups of water for 1 cup of rava for soft texture.

Continuous stirring while adding rava avoids lumps.

Add vegetables for extra nutrition and color.

Use ghee instead of oil for a richer flavor.

Resting time after cooking helps the upma set and enhances texture.

Variations of Arisi Rava Upma

Vegetable Arisi Rava Upma: Add finely chopped carrots, beans, and peas.

Tomato Arisi Rava Upma: Add chopped tomatoes for a tangy twist.

Lemon Arisi Rava Upma: Add lemon juice and skip onions for a refreshing flavor.