Appam with Stew
Appam, a fluffy pancake with a soft center and crispy edges, is a popular breakfast in Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu. The pancake is made from fermented
rice batter, cooked in a special pan. Pair this with a delicious vegetable stew or a creamy egg curry, and your breakfast becomes a delight. The stew commonly features vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beans, simmered in a rich coconut milk gravy, providing a blend of textures and flavors, offering a comforting and satisfying start to the day. Enjoying Appam with stew makes for a fantastic, fulfilling meal.
Puttu & Kadala Curry
Puttu is a steamed cylindrical rice cake, a staple in Kerala and coastal Karnataka. Made from ground rice and coconut, it is steamed in a special puttu steamer. The combination with Kadala curry, a flavorful black chickpea curry, is a classic. The curry is spiced with ginger, garlic, and various Indian spices, providing a savory counterpoint to the mild sweetness of the puttu. This combination is a great way to start the day with energy, offering a balanced blend of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.
Upma
Upma, a savory porridge made from semolina, is a quick and easy breakfast option found across South India. Semolina is roasted and cooked with water, vegetables, and spices. It's often flavored with mustard seeds, curry leaves, onions, and green chilies. Upma is a versatile dish, easily customized with various vegetables like peas, carrots, and beans. The flavors create a light yet filling breakfast, perfect for a busy morning. It is a nutritious and flavorful breakfast option for many people.
Pongal
Pongal is a rice and lentil dish cooked with spices, originating from Tamil Nadu. The rice and lentils are cooked together, then seasoned with cumin seeds, black peppercorns, ginger, and curry leaves. It is a hearty and comforting breakfast. It is typically served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney. Pongal is a substantial and fulfilling start to the day and a great way to experience South Indian cuisine.
Bonda
Bonda is a deep-fried snack, enjoyed as breakfast in many parts of South India. It can be made from various ingredients, including potatoes, lentils, and vegetables. Potato bonda is a popular choice, mashed potatoes are mixed with spices, and then they are deep-fried into golden balls. Bonda is often served with coconut chutney or sambar, offering a satisfying, crispy treat. It provides an immediate energy boost and a delightful taste.
Uttapam
Uttapam is a thick pancake made from fermented lentil and rice batter, similar to dosa, but thicker. It is cooked on a griddle and can be topped with various ingredients, like onions, tomatoes, and chilies. This makes it versatile and customizable. Uttapam is a savory and flavorful breakfast option, offering a different texture and taste compared to a regular dosa. It is perfect for those who enjoy a heartier breakfast.
Pesarattu
Pesarattu is a savory crepe made from green gram (moong dal), popular in Andhra Pradesh. It is a thin, crispy pancake, often stuffed with upma. Pesarattu is a lighter alternative to other breakfast options. The filling adds substance, making it a complete meal. This offers a nutritious, protein-packed start to your day. Pesarattu is a great choice for those who prefer a lighter yet fulfilling breakfast.
Rava Dosa
Rava dosa is a crispy, lacy crepe made from semolina, rice flour, and spices. It is thinner and crispier than a regular dosa. The batter is poured onto a hot griddle, and it cooks quickly. It is often served with sambar and chutney. The crispy texture and unique flavor make it a popular choice. Rava dosa offers a satisfying, light yet tasty breakfast experience.
Idiyappam
Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, are steamed rice noodles, prevalent in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These are made from rice flour and are steamed into delicate, noodle-like strands. Idiyappam is usually served with vegetable stew or egg curry. The delicate texture and mild flavor make them easy to pair with various curries. Idiyappam provides a light yet fulfilling breakfast experience.
Kuzhi Paniyaram
Kuzhi paniyaram are small, round, savory dumplings made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, similar to dosa batter. They are cooked in a special pan with indentations. These are crispy on the outside and soft inside. The dumplings are often spiced with onions, chilies, and other spices. Kuzhi paniyaram provides a delicious and filling breakfast, offering a blend of textures and flavors that is sure to satisfy. These are best served with chutney.
