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Do you wake up hungry but unsure what to have for breakfast? Skip the regular cereal and explore a traditional Indian breakfast instead. In Indian households, breakfast is an essential part of the day, offering a wide variety of flavours, just like the rest of the cuisine. Every region in India boasts its unique breakfast specialities, and while chai remains the favoured morning drink, coffee has also gained popularity.
Indian cuisine offers a rich selection of delicious breakfast options. Here are our top ten picks to kickstart your day:
1. Idli and Sambar
Idli and sambar are iconic South Indian breakfast favourites. Idlis are soft, steamed rice cakes made from a fermented blend of rice and lentils. The batter is poured into round moulds and steamed to create light, fluffy, and flavorful cakes that can be enjoyed on their own. Idlis are typically paired with vegetable sambar.
Sambar is a spicy, tangy lentil-based vegetable stew made with lentils, various vegetables like tomatoes, okra, shallots, radishes, and drumsticks. It also includes tamarind paste, herbs, and sambar powder. This zesty stew complements dosas, rice, and, of course, idlis perfectly.
2. Dosa
Dosa is a beloved South Indian breakfast dish, famous for its large, crispy texture. Made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, this thin, lacey crepe is often stuffed with a spicy potato filling that includes potatoes, spices, onions, and curry leaves. Dosa is typically served with vegetable sambar and coconut chutney, creating a delicious and fulfilling breakfast.
3. Paratha
Paratha is a crispy, flaky flatbread that turns a golden brown when cooked. This square-shaped unleavened bread is made from whole wheat flour, salt, water, and ghee. The dough is divided into small balls, rolled out, layered with ghee, and shallow-fried to perfection.
Stuffed parathas come in a variety of mouthwatering options such as aloo (potato), mooli (radish), gobi (cauliflower), and even cheese. If you’re in a hurry, try our quick no-knead paratha recipe. Parathas are often served with achar (pickle) and yoghurt, making it a fulfilling and delicious meal.
4. Methi Thepla
Methi thepla is freshly prepared every day at Patel’s Fresh Kitchen inside the store. Made with methi leaves (fenugreek leaves), a blend of wheat flour and gram flour, and a variety of aromatic spices and herbs, this flatbread is bursting with flavor. It’s commonly served with yogurt, chutney, or pickle (achar) and is a popular breakfast choice.
5. Batata Poha
Batata Poha, a classic Gujarati breakfast and snack, is a light yet flavorful dish. Made with flattened rice, spices, onions, and potatoes, it’s a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal.
6. Upma
Upma is a savoury, nutrient-packed dish with a porridge-like texture. The preparation starts by roasting oats,and then mixing them with vegetables, dried lentils, curry leaves, spices, and cashews. It can also be made with coarse semolina or quinoa for variety.
7. Rava Uttapam
Rava Uttapam is India’s take on savoury pancakes. The batter is made from semolina, yoghurt, grated vegetables, and spices. Ghee is heated in a pan over medium heat, and the uttapam batter is poured in and cooked until both sides turn golden brown.
Feel free to customize Rava Uttapam by adding your favourite veggies. It is typically served with coconut chutney and offers a soft, fluffy, and spongy texture, making it a delicious treat.
8. Khaman Dhokla
Dhokla is a savoury, soft, and fluffy steamed cake made from chickpea flour. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack and is crafted using gram flour, semolina, and a variety of spices. Once the batter is steamed to perfection, it is tempered with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, hing, curry leaves, green peppers, and cilantro for added flavour.
Typically, Dhokla is served with mint chutney and tamarind chutney, which elevate the taste and add an extra zing to this delightful treat. It is a well-loved dish, especially during religious events, celebrations, and festivals, making it a cherished part of Indian cuisine.
9. Masala Omelet
Masala Omelet offers a delicious twist on the classic omelette. Bursting with onions, cilantro, green peppers, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it delivers a vibrant, spicy flavour. The eggs maintain their creamy texture, while the edges crisp up, creating a satisfying contrast with the bold, flavorful spices.
For the perfect meal, enjoy your Masala Omelet alongside buttered toast or a crispy paratha for an extra touch of indulgence.
10. Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is a traditional North Indian breakfast favourite that’s sure to satisfy. It consists of two key components:
- Chole: A spicy chickpea curry prepared with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of cumin, coriander, red chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. It’s garnished with chopped onions, green chilies, and lemon wedges to enhance the flavor.
- Bhature: Also known as puri, these are round, deep-fried bread made from a dough of flour, yoghurt, salt, and baking powder. Bhature puffs up during frying, turning crispy on the outside and airy on the inside.
Chole Bhature is a flavorful and indulgent dish, making it an ideal choice for breakfast. Indian breakfasts offer a wide range of quick and satisfying options that are worth waking up for.
Conclusion
Indian breakfasts are a delightful fusion of flavours, textures, and cultural traditions. From the soft, fluffy idlis and crispy, savoury dosas to the hearty, indulgent chole bhature, these dishes reflect the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine. Each breakfast choice offers a distinct taste, making it a perfect way to start your day. Whether you prefer something light and nutritious or rich and filling, Indian breakfasts cater to every craving. Trying these dishes is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing a piece of India’s vibrant food culture.
