Pair your regular upma with a protein-containing side or stir in a cooked pulse. Plain curd, cooked chana and moong are three options. Choose one that fits the breakfast you actually have time to make.
Keep the upma as it is
Serve plain curd alongside your usual rava upma if you eat dairy. Vegetables can stay in the pan as usual. If the curd is packaged and you are comparing options, look at protein per 100 g and then estimate how much you serve. A small spoon on the side and a bowl represent different amounts.
Use what is ready in the kitchen
If you already have cooked chana or moong that has been safely stored, you can use it as a warm side or fold it into the dish towards the end. Cooking dry chickpeas from scratch on a rushed morning adds another job. Choose a side that needs little preparation when time is tight.
Plan for a canteen plate
If the canteen has upma and no obvious side, check whether plain curd or a pulse dish is available separately. Pack a suitable option only if you can store it safely until you eat. Someone who likes a crunchy topping may use peanuts if appropriate for their diet, but still needs to consider the amount they use. The egg-free Indian breakfast guide has alternatives for days when there is no upma.
Related reading · Indian breakfast and blood sugar: practical changes to familiar meals.