Idli: South Indian Delight
Idli, a quintessential South Indian breakfast, takes the top spot. These soft, fluffy cakes are made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, then
steamed to perfection. The fermentation process enhances their digestibility, making them a light yet filling option. Idlis are usually served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney, offering a balanced and flavorful meal. The simplicity of idli makes it a breakfast staple across South India, and its versatility allows for variations like rava idli (made with semolina) for those seeking a change. This dish is known for its mild flavor that complements the accompanying sides. This is a very popular dish across India.
Dhokla: Gujarati Treat
Originating from Gujarat, Dhokla is a steamed snack made from fermented batter, often consisting of gram flour (besan), semolina, or rice. The batter is seasoned with spices and then steamed, resulting in a spongy and delicious treat. This dish can be enjoyed at any time of the day. A tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies is often poured over the dhokla, adding an extra layer of flavor and aroma. Dhokla is not just delicious; it is also a relatively healthy option due to the steaming process and the use of gram flour. Its soft texture makes it easy to eat and digest, making it a favorite among all age groups. Dhokla is a truly delightful snack for people of any age group.
Khaman: Another Gujarati Dish
Similar to dhokla, Khaman is another Gujarati steamed dish made from a batter of gram flour. The main difference lies in the method of preparation and the final texture. Khaman is typically made with a batter that includes spices and sometimes fruit salt for a fluffier texture. It's steamed until light and airy, and then tempered with mustard seeds, asafoetida, and green chilies. The result is a vibrant, flavorful snack often garnished with coriander leaves and served with chutney. Khaman is a popular choice for breakfast, and its versatility allows it to be enjoyed as a side dish or snack. This dish is great for any time of the day.
Puttu: Kerala's Pride
Puttu, a breakfast staple in Kerala, is made from steamed cylinders of ground rice flour and coconut. The ingredients are layered in a special puttu maker, resulting in a steamed cake with a distinct texture. Puttu is often served with kadala curry (black chickpea curry), grated coconut, and ripe bananas. The combination of flavors and textures—the soft puttu, the rich curry, the sweet banana—creates a satisfying and wholesome meal. Puttu can also be made with other grains like wheat flour or ragi, offering variations to suit different preferences. Puttu is a beloved dish across Kerala.
Modak: Maharashtrian Sweet
Modak is a sweet dumpling that holds a special place in Maharashtrian cuisine, especially during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. The outer shell is made from rice flour or wheat flour and the filling is traditionally a sweet mixture of grated coconut and jaggery. These dumplings are steamed until cooked through. Modaks are offered as a prasad (religious offering) to Lord Ganesha, and are a delightful treat. The sweet filling and soft shell make modaks a beloved dessert item. Modaks are a must try for all who love a sweet dish.
Vada: South Indian Crispy
Vada, typically enjoyed in South India, is a savory, doughnut-shaped fritter made from fermented lentil batter (usually urad dal). The batter is shaped into a ring and deep-fried, but a steamed version exists as well, offering a healthier alternative. Steamed vada retains the same delicious taste, however the steamed version is cooked in a steamer. Served with sambar and chutney, this steamed version provides a balanced breakfast. This is a very popular dish across South India.
Idiyappam: String Hoppers
Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, are steamed rice noodles that form a staple breakfast in several South Indian states and Sri Lanka. Made from rice flour, these thin, noodle-like strands are steamed and served with various accompaniments like coconut milk, stew, or vegetable curry. The preparation involves pressing the rice flour dough through a sieve-like press to create the strands, which are then steamed to perfection. Idiyappam’s delicate texture and mild flavor make it versatile and suitable for both savory and sweet pairings. This is a dish that is light on the stomach, and provides a good start to the day.
Bati: Rajasthani Staple
Bati, a quintessential Rajasthani dish, is made from unleavened wheat dough that is baked or steamed. These round dumplings are a significant part of the famous dal-baati-churma combination, where the bati is broken and immersed in ghee (clarified butter), then served with dal (lentil curry) and churma (sweet crumbled bread). Steaming bati offers a different textural experience compared to baking, making it softer and easier to eat. The versatility of bati allows it to be enjoyed in various ways, making it a delicious and fulfilling meal.
Momo: Himalayan Delight
While not exclusively Indian, momos have gained immense popularity in the Himalayan regions of India, and beyond. These steamed dumplings typically feature a meat or vegetable filling wrapped in a dough made from wheat flour. They are steamed until cooked and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Momos are a hearty and flavorful breakfast option, providing a filling and satisfying meal. The steaming process keeps the dumplings juicy and allows the flavors of the filling to shine through. Momos can be found at all times of the day.
Poha: Maharashtra's Choice
Poha, a popular breakfast in Maharashtra and other parts of India, features flattened rice (poha) that is softened by soaking and then tempered with spices, onions, and often potatoes. Although it's not strictly steamed, poha can be cooked in a way that retains moisture and creates a soft texture, sometimes with a gentle steaming process. This dish is usually garnished with fresh coriander and sev (crispy gram flour noodles). Poha is a quick and easy breakfast, making it ideal for busy mornings. It is also a good source of carbohydrates and is a tasty and wholesome meal.
