How to Make a Simple Yet Flavorful Indian Breakfast

Starting your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast is essential. An Indian breakfast can be simple yet packed with flavors that awaken your taste buds. Here’s how to make a few popular Indian breakfast dishes that are easy to prepare and absolutely delightful.

1. Poha (Flattened Rice)

Poha is a light and nutritious dish made from flattened rice, commonly enjoyed in many Indian households. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup flattened rice (poha)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the poha in water to soften it, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.
  3. Add the chopped onions and green chili, sauté until the onions are translucent.
  4. Stir in the turmeric powder, salt, and finally the softened poha. Mix gently to combine everything.
  5. Cook for another couple of minutes, then garnish with fresh coriander before serving with lemon wedges.

2. Upma (Savory Semolina Dish)

Upma is another popular Indian breakfast item made from semolina. It’s a satisfying dish filled with spices and veggies.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup semolina (rava)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • ½ cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp urad dal (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, dry roast the semolina until it turns slightly golden, then set aside.
  2. In the same pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds and urad dal. Let them crackle.
  3. Add onions and green chili, sauté until the onions soften.
  4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes. Add water and salt, and bring to a boil.
  5. Slowly add the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. Cook for a few minutes until the water is absorbed. Garnish with coriander before serving.

3. Aloo Paratha (Stuffed Potato Bread)

Aloo paratha is a delicious stuffed flatbread that’s a favorite in many Indian households. It’s best served with yogurt or pickles.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Water (for kneading)
  • Oil or ghee (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cumin seeds, chopped green chili, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, knead the whole wheat flour with water to form a smooth dough.
  3. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll out each ball into small discs, place a spoonful of the potato mixture in the center, and fold it to seal.
  4. Roll out the filled dough gently to form a paratha.
  5. Heat a tawa (griddle) and cook the paratha on both sides, adding oil or ghee until golden brown.