5 Iconic Indian Breakfasts You Should Make at Home

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and in India, it’s a delightful medley of flavors and textures. From spicy to sweet, Indian breakfasts are a treat for the taste buds. Here are five iconic Indian breakfasts you should definitely try making at home.

1. Poha

Poha is a versatile dish made from flattened rice and is popular in many states across India, especially Maharashtra. It is light, nutritious, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

To make poha, rinse the flattened rice and let it drain while you sauté onions, green chilies, and mustard seeds in oil. Add peanuts for crunch and the drained poha, seasoning it with turmeric, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with fresh coriander to enjoy a delicious, healthy breakfast.

2. Aloo Paratha

For those craving something hearty, aloo paratha is a perfect pick. This stuffed flatbread made with whole wheat flour is filled with spiced mashed potatoes and served with yogurt or pickles.

To prepare, knead the dough and roll it into small circles. Fill each circle with a mixture of boiled potatoes, spices, and herbs, then roll them out carefully again. Cook on a hot griddle until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy hot with butter on top!

3. Idli

Idli is a traditional South Indian steamed rice cake that is soft, fluffy, and incredibly light. It is made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal (black gram), making it a great source of protein.

For perfect idlis, soak rice and urad dal overnight, grind into a smooth batter, and let it ferment for several hours. Steam in idli molds until fluffy and serve with coconut chutney and sambar for a satisfying breakfast.

4. Dhokla

Dhokla is a savory snack originating from Gujarat, often enjoyed as a breakfast item. This steamed cake made from gram flour is light, spongy, and slightly tangy.

To make dhokla, mix gram flour with water, yogurt, and temper with turmeric, salt, and a bit of lemon juice. Pour the batter into a steamer, cook until firm, and then cut into squares. Top with a tempering of mustard seeds and green chilies for an extra flavor kick.

5. Chole Bhature

This North Indian classic combines spicy chickpeas (chole) with deep-fried bread (bhature). Although it may not be a typical breakfast in all of India, it is immensely popular for weekend brunches.

Prepare the chickpeas by soaking them overnight and cooking them with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. For bhature, make a dough with flour, yogurt, and baking powder, then roll into discs and deep-fry until puffed. Serve the chole with freshly made bhature and a side of pickles for a fulfilling breakfast.

Incorporating these iconic Indian breakfasts into your morning routine will not only add variety to your diet but also allow you to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Indian cuisine. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking!