Quick Start: Upma
Upma, a South Indian staple, is incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients. All you need is semolina (rava or sooji), water, and a pinch of salt.
You can elevate it by adding vegetables like onions and tomatoes if you have a little more time. The simplicity of Upma makes it a go-to breakfast choice, ready in minutes. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, keeping you energized throughout the morning. Remember to dry roast the semolina for a better taste and texture before cooking. A small amount of oil will also help to prevent it from sticking to the pan. This classic dish is a nutritional powerhouse, ideal for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal.
The Simple Egg: Omelette
An omelette is another breakfast champion, easily customizable with just three ingredients. Eggs form the base, and you can add salt and pepper for seasoning. If you have any veggies like chopped onions or green chilies, they can enhance the taste. The versatility of an omelette is unmatched; it can be quickly cooked to your liking, scrambled, or made into a fluffy omelette. Eggs are packed with protein, making this breakfast choice an excellent way to keep hunger at bay until lunchtime. A well-made omelette not only gives you energy but also provides essential nutrients.
Peanut Butter Toast
Peanut butter toast is a classic choice, requiring just three basic components. All you need is bread, peanut butter, and a touch of honey or jam if you have it. This quick breakfast delivers a combination of complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. Peanut butter is a rich source of protein and keeps you full for a long duration. Whole-grain bread boosts the fiber content, adding to the health benefits. This simple breakfast is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, filling meal. For those who want more flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon can also be added. Toast the bread to a golden brown for a better taste and texture.
Yogurt with Fruit
Yogurt with fruit is a light and nutritious breakfast that only needs three ingredients. You require yogurt (plain or flavored), any seasonal fruit, and a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of granola for added sweetness and crunch. This option provides probiotics from yogurt, fiber and vitamins from the fruit, and a bit of energy from the sweetener. It's a great option for a warm weather breakfast and is a quick, easy to prepare. Fruit like bananas, berries, or mangoes pair nicely with yogurt. You can prepare this dish in advance, making it a grab-and-go option.
Besan Chilla Delight
Besan Chilla is a savory pancake made with besan (gram flour), water, and spices like salt and chili powder. It's a popular breakfast option across India and is quick to prepare. You can whisk the besan with water and spices to form a batter and cook it on a hot pan until golden brown. This dish is rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling and healthy choice. The spices can be customized to your preference, from mild to spicy. It provides a good source of energy and nutrients and is best served with a chutney or ketchup.
Milk and Cornflakes
A staple for many, milk and cornflakes is an easy breakfast with just three elements. Pour milk into a bowl, add cornflakes, and add a little sugar or honey for sweetness if needed. It is a quick and simple way to start your day. Cornflakes offer carbohydrates for energy, while milk provides calcium and protein. This breakfast can be prepared in minutes, making it ideal for those who are in a hurry. You can substitute cornflakes with other cereals like oats or muesli for variety. It’s also a good choice for those who do not want to spend much time cooking in the morning.
Poha with a Twist
Poha, or flattened rice, is a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast. You'll need poha, water, and some seasoning. Soak the poha, add seasonings, and stir-fry. It can be made in a variety of styles, using ingredients like turmeric, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. It's a quick and filling breakfast that's packed with carbohydrates. It can be garnished with fresh coriander leaves, which adds to the taste. Poha is a light, easy-to-digest option perfect for a quick meal. To save time, you can also add chopped vegetables, making the meal even more nutritious.
Bread with Cheese
Bread with cheese is another easy-to-make breakfast option requiring only three ingredients: bread, cheese slices, and a little butter. Toast the bread, add the cheese slices, and you are good to go. You can also toast it for a quick, melted cheese sandwich. Cheese provides calcium and protein, and the bread delivers carbohydrates for energy. It's a quick way to satisfy hunger and prepare you for the day ahead. This simple combination is a good choice for those who are seeking a quick meal solution.
Banana and Oats
A quick and filling breakfast idea is oatmeal made with oats, water, and banana. Cook the oats with water and mash the banana for sweetness. Oats are a great source of fiber and energy, and bananas add natural sweetness and potassium. You can also add cinnamon or other spices for flavor. It's an easy breakfast and a filling option, making it perfect for busy mornings. Preparing this can be as easy as microwaving the ingredients for a minute or two.
Egg Bhurji Simple
Egg bhurji, or scrambled eggs, can be made using eggs, salt, and pepper. Simply scramble the eggs with the seasonings. This dish provides protein and can be customized with onions or chillies, if you have time. The dish is quick and easy to make, making it a perfect quick-fix breakfast. A well-cooked bhurji provides energy and essential nutrients. It can also be paired with toast for a fuller meal.
Idli Sambar
If you have some leftover idli and sambar or can find it in a nearby shop, this combination makes a quick and healthy breakfast. It just needs ready-made idlis, sambar, and a little chutney if available. Idlis offer carbohydrates and are easily digestible, while sambar provides protein and vegetables. This combination ensures a balanced breakfast that is both filling and nutritious. Many places have pre-made idli-sambar, making this an easy-to-prepare breakfast option.
The Classic Paratha
Although it's a bit time-consuming, if you have pre-made paratha dough, the breakfast is quick to assemble. All you'll need is the paratha, some oil or ghee for cooking, and a simple vegetable like potato or cauliflower to fill it. Parathas provide energy and can be customized with various fillings, making them a filling and satisfying breakfast choice. A hot paratha with a cup of tea or curd is a perfect start to any day. They are easy to pack and take to work, if you need to.
