How to Make Simple and Healthy Indian Breakfasts

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and in Indian cuisine, there are countless ways to create healthy and simple breakfast dishes. From wholesome ingredients to vibrant spices, here’s a guide on how to prepare quick, nutritious Indian breakfasts.

1. Poha (Flattened Rice)
Poha is a light and nutritious breakfast option. To prepare, rinse 1 cup of flattened rice in water and drain. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add mustard seeds, chopped onions, green chilies, and peas. Sauté until translucent, then add the rinsed poha along with salt, turmeric, and lemon juice. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve warm.

2. Upma (Savory Semolina Porridge)
For a filling breakfast, upma is a fantastic choice. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet, and add mustard seeds, urad dal, chopped onions, and green chilies. Once the onions are golden, stir in 1 cup of semolina (sooji) and roast until light brown. Add 2 cups of water and salt, and mix well until it thickens. Finish with a sprinkling of fresh coriander and serve hot, paired with coconut chutney.

3. Idli (Steamed Rice Cakes)
Idlis are soft, fluffy rice cakes made from fermented batter. Soak 1 cup of rice and 1/4 cup of urad dal in water for 6-8 hours. Grind into a smooth batter, then let it ferment overnight. To cook, pour the batter into idli molds and steam for about 10 minutes. Serve with sambar and coconut chutney to boost the nutritious factor.

4. Dhokla (Savory Steamed Cake)
Dhokla is another healthy breakfast option that is easy to prepare. Mix 1 cup of besan (chickpea flour) with 1/2 cup of water, turmeric, salt, and lemon juice. Add a teaspoon of Eno fruit salt just before steaming. Pour the mixture into a greased plate and steam for 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, cut into squares and temper with mustard seeds and curry leaves for added flavor.

5. Oats Khichdi
This is a healthy twist on the traditional khichdi. Cook 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and beans) in a pressure cooker. Once soft, add rinsed oats and 2 cups of water along with spices like cumin and turmeric. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until oats are soft. This dish is filling, nutritious, and perfect for busy mornings.

6. Besan Cheela (Chickpea Flour Pancakes)
Cheela is a quick-to-make protein-packed breakfast. Mix 1 cup of besan with water to form a smooth batter, and add chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. Pour a ladleful onto a heated non-stick pan and cook until golden brown on both sides. Serve hot with green chutney or yogurt.

7. Smoothie Bowl with Masala Chia Seeds
For a refreshing start to the day, blend 1 banana, 1 cup of spinach, and 1 cup of almond milk until smooth. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with a sprinkle of masala chia seeds (mix chia seeds with a pinch of cumin and salt) along with sliced fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey.

These simple Indian breakfast options are not only nutritious but also easy to make, catering to various palates and preferences. Incorporating them into your morning routine will ensure a healthy start to your day while keeping your taste buds satisfied.