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When you think of having a South Indian breakfast, the first thing that comes to mind is idlis and dosas. They are classic, comforting, and loved all across India. But not many know that south indian cuisine has much more to offer, apart from these basic dishes, particularly when you are short on time in the busy mornings. From the wholesome millet-based dishes to quick one-pan meals, these breakfast options are light, filling, and full of flavours.
The beauty of South Indian breakfasts is often made with ingredients that are easy on the stomach, loaded with various essential nutrients, and flavoured up with spices and tempering that wake up your senses. Not only this, but many of these dishes can be prepared in under 20 minutes, which makes them perfect for busy mornings when you need something fast as well as fulfilling.
Upma
It is a classic semolina (rava/sooji) based dish, that is light on the stomach, easy to make, and also filling. It is one of the perfect breakfasts for busy mornings. Prepared by roasting some rava and then seasoned with curry leaves, green chillies, as well as mustard seeds, and often loaded with various seasonal veggies. It is both nutritious, as it has the goodness of various vegetables, and flavourful. Its lumpy, soft texture makes it easy for kids as well as adults alike. Pair it with coconut chutney or any simple pickle to give an extra zing to the dish.
Paniyaram
Prepared from leftover idli or dosa batter, paniyaram is an easy and tasty breakfast option. Prepared in a special appe pan, these are small dumplings that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. You can make them plain or can flavour them up with chopped onions, chillies, carrot, capsicum, as well as curry leaves for some extra added flavour. Serve them with coconut or tomato chutney; they are hassle-free and easy. Paniyaram is not just a quick breakfast to prepare, but also a wonderful way to reduce kitchen waste and incorporate veggies that you would avoid eating otherwise.
Venn Pongal
It is a comforting dish prepared from rice and moong dal. It can be compared to khichdi. Spiced up with ghee, cumin, black pepper, ginger, as well as curry leaves, venn pongal is a comforting and fragrant meal to savour. It is usually paired with coconut chutney or sambar, but on busy mornings, you can have it without any pairing, and it tastes just as good. Since it is rich in protein and can be digested easily, it keeps you fuller for a longer duration without feeling very heavy. This dish is a perfect breakfast option for mornings when you want a quick but healthy start to the day.
Adai
Apart from the regular dosa, adai is prepared from a batter of mixed lentils and rice. It is a quicker and easier option to prepare than the traditional dosa, as it requires little to no fermentation. Adai is slightly thicker, crispy on the edges, and soft inside. It is often seasoned with onions, chillies, and curry leaves. It can be paired wonderfully with avial, coconut chutney, or even jaggery for a wholesome breakfast. Not only breakfast, but it can also be enjoyed as a wholesome lunch or when you wish to have a light dinner.
Ragi Puttu
It is a nutritious steamed breakfast that is prepared with ragi flour, some grated coconut, and jaggery. Loved for its earthy flavour and high calcium content, ragi puttu is both filling and nutritious. It is a popular choice of breakfast in Kerala and the Tamil Nadu region. It is quick to prepare and can be prepared in just a few minutes of steaming. Traditionally paired with bananas or a side of curry, if you want to keep it light, it can also be enjoyed plain without any pairing. It is a great way to add millets to your daily meal effortlessly.
