Upma is a wholesome Indian dish made with dry semolina, cooked into a thick porridge. Traditionally served hot for breakfast, its taste is slightly bland, so various nuts, beans, and spices such as turmeric and chiles are commonly added to the dish in order to improve its flavors.
Upma originated in South India, but gained popularity over the years, and is now commonly found throughout the country. It is said that no upma is the same, since every South Indian cook will make it differently, and there are numerous variations of the dish, such as upmas prepared with grated coconut instead of onions, or upmas with corn and milk.