Upma Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes made with upma-inspired savory flavors.

I never thought Upma Pancakes would be a hit with my kids, but here we are—debating whether these savory pancakes should become a regular part of our breakfast routine. I first made them on a lazy Saturday, trying to use up some leftover upma. When my 7-year-old tasted them, he exclaimed, “It’s like upma and pancakes had a baby!” And honestly, that’s the perfect way to describe them. My toddler, on the other hand, decided to take a bite, then fling it across the kitchen (because why not?), but even he managed to munch down the rest. It was a total win, and now, I’m the one being asked to make them every weekend. Parenting: when your kids start giving you breakfast requests. 

1. Upma Pancakes

Fluffy pancakes made with upma-inspired savory flavors. 

Serving Count: 4 servings (2 pancakes per person) 

Calories per serving: ~300 

Macros: 

• Protein: 8g 

• Carbs: 45g 

• Fat: 10g 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup semolina (rava) 

• ½ cup finely chopped onions 

• ½ cup finely chopped tomatoes 

• ¼ cup peas 

• 1 tsp mustard seeds 

• 1 tsp cumin seeds 

• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional) 

• 1 tbsp grated ginger 

• 2 tbsp ghee (or oil) 

• 1 cup water 

• Salt to taste 

• 1 egg (optional for fluffiness) 

• ½ cup milk 

• 1 tsp baking powder 

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish) 

Instructions: 

1. Heat ghee in a pan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them splutter. Add the chopped onions, tomatoes, peas, and chilies (if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. 

1. Add the semolina (rava) and roast it until light golden brown. Add water and salt, stir well, and cook until it comes together into a thick mixture. Set aside to cool. 

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add this to the cooled upma mixture and mix it into a batter. 

1. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle, grease lightly with ghee or oil, and pour the batter to form small pancakes. Cook until golden on both sides. 

1. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. 

Suggested Sides: 

• A side of coconut chutney for extra flavor 

• Sliced cucumber or tomatoes for freshness 

Family Fun Fact: 

When I first made these, my toddler thought the pancakes were a game of "throw and catch" and launched one across the kitchen. It landed perfectly on the couch—cue a big laugh, and she ate the rest with gusto!