35+ Best Indian Breakfast Recipes
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Running out of ideas on what to make for breakfast? Here’s a list of easy Indian breakfast recipes which includes all your South Indian as well as North Indian favorites, from idli/dosa to parathas. This list of 35+ recipes will ensure that you’ll never be bored of eating the same things over and over.
You have probably heard this a million times that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating a good, healthy breakfast fills you up and keeps you from reaching out for a pack of chips or loading up on caffeine right before lunch.
Also, if you are like me, eating something in the morning might help you start your day all charged up instead of being tired and cranky.
That’s why I thought of putting together this collection of Indian breakfast recipes that are perfect for busy mornings.
What do Indians typically eat for breakfast?
Indian cuisine is known for its diverse food; what folks typically eat in Indian households depends on what is local to that region. For example, North Indians prefer wheat-based breakfasts like parathas; South Indians lean more towards idlis, dosas, and uttapams, which are rice-based, and folks like me who grew up in Maharashtra and neighboring states (central and western India) love their poha and tea.
But in the last two decades or so, more and more Indians have left their homes for higher education and jobs. Many of us have moved across the country and even outside the country. We are no longer limited to eating what was traditionally made at home.
This list of quick breakfast recipes is reflective of our changing horizons.
I am sure you’ll love this wide collection of healthy Indian breakfast recipes – a combination of north, west, and south Indian recipes that have now become part of our weekly rotation.
Poha and upma
Poha and upma are undoubtedly the most popular breakfast items on the menus of cafeterias and restaurants in Maharashtra. Learn how to crack the code and make restaurant-style poha and upma at home. Both these breakfast items go really well with a hot cup of ginger tea (adrak wali chai)
Batata Poha
This Batata Poha recipe is dedicated to those who want a great tasting (and looking) Poha. Say goodbye to mushed-up poha!
Rava upma
Ready in 20 minutes, this delicious rava upma makes for a filling and satisfying meal when paired with chutney and sambar.
Bread upma
Quickly made on the stove, this simple bread upma features chunks of leftover bread, vegetables, and spices all combined to make a savory and satisfying breakfast all in under 20 minutes.
Semiya upma
This delicious and tangy semiya upma (lemon vermicelli) or vermicelli upma is just what you need to start your day. It is filling and comes together in 15 minutes from start to finish.
Sabudana khichdi
For those who have made sabudana khichdi before, you probably know that the trickiest part of making this dish is to prevent the sabudana (tapioca pearls) from getting clumped together. But don’t worry – I have included all the tips and tricks that’ll help you nail this recipe from the get-go.
Idlis and dosas
Idlis and dosas are a staple in South Indian families. The recipes below will show you how to make pillowy soft idlis and crispy dosas that’ll wow your family.
Soft idli
Those who have experienced the whimsical nature of the idli dosa batter probably know that making soft idlis can be compared to predicting the weather.
The uncertainty that is involved with the fermentation process can drive anyone up the wall but don’t worry – the post below will show you how to consistently make pillowy-soft idlis that you’ll be proud of.
Idli fry
Got leftover idlis that no one wants to eat or made a batch that ended up being too hard? Here’s a solution for you – make this crispy roasted idli fry.
Instant Rava Idli
Here is a quick recipe to enjoy those lovely soft fluffy instant rava idlis whenever the mood strikes. Savor it with coconut chutney or peanut chutney.
Crispy Sada Dosa
This recipe will teach you how to make crispy plain dosa or sada dosa using idli-dosa batter. You can easily modify this recipe to make masala dosa or cheese dosa as well.
Uttapam
Uttapams are savory pancakes with crispy golden edges and a pillowy soft center topped with veggies. Traditionally served as breakfast in India, uttapam also makes for a quick and satiating meal.
Buttermilk dosa
These buttermilk dosas are one of a kind – they are soft and literally melt in your mouth. Serve it for breakfast with coconut chutney or for brunch with your favorite chicken curry.
Kappa rotti
Kappa rutti or Kappa rotti – This soft in the center and crispy on the sides 4-ingredient dosa or pancake from Mangalore is a culinary delight. Try it out today – no fermentation required!
Moong dal dosa
Moong Dal Dosa is a savory crepe made with moong dal (split petite yellow lentils). It’s gluten-free, easy to make, and makes a filling breakfast or lunch. Stuff it with paneer or tofu (for the vegan version), and you have got a complete protein-packed meal!
Neer dosa
This thin crepe from Mangalore is a must-try in my book. Delicate and soft, this rice crepe tastes great with coconut chutney and kori gassi (Mangalorean chicken curry).
Ven Pongal
With a smooth porridge-like consistency, ven pongal, made from rice and lentils, is a popular South Indian breakfast. It is served piping hot with a tempering of cashews, curry leaves, pepper, and ghee.
Sweet beaten rice
Looking for easy breakfast ideas? This sweet beaten rice dish (bajil bella tarai or sweet aval / attukulu) made from flattened rice, jaggery, and coconut, will not disappoint. It is a delightful no-cook breakfast dish that comes together in 5 minutes.
Parathas and chillas
Parathas and chilla make for a hearty breakfast – a staple in North Indian homes; these flatbreads are a great way to start your day.
Besan chilla
Besan chilla is a savory pancake made with gram flour and veggies. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and a popular breakfast in India!
Moong dal chilla
Gluten-free vegan moong dal cheela or pancakes spiced with green chili and ginger is a delicious treat any time of the day.
Poori
Poori is a deep-fried bread that is often served for breakfast or lunch with aloo bhaji (spicy potato side dish) or shrikhand (sweetened hung yogurt). The recipe below will give you all the tips and tricks to make puffed-up pooris.
Plain paratha
This is an easy paratha recipe for you to get started with. The step-by-step photos in this post will teach you how to make round, square, and triangular parathas in no time.
Aloo paratha
This Indian flatbread made with spiced mashed potatoes is the perfect way to start your day. Pack it for lunch or savor it for brunch – this filling, healthy meal is perfect for any time of the day.
Onion paratha
Filled with onions and aromatic spices, this stuffed onion paratha recipe definitely packs a punch.
Paneer paratha
This paneer paratha is a favorite with my kids. What I love most is that it is easy to prep ahead, and it freezes well too.
Methi paratha
The fragrant methi leaves make these healthy parathas a gastronomic experience that you won’t soon forget.
Masala paratha
Flavorful and flaky, this masala paratha recipe makes a hearty breakfast, filling lunch, or satiating snack. With variations for both paratha and roti, this spiced Indian flatbread is sure to hit the spot.
Craving for parathas?
15+ Easy Paratha RecipesThere is more to Indian bread than roti, parathas and naan. Check out this list of 15+ bread recipes from all over India.
For Egg lovers
What most people love about eggs is that they cook quickly, soak up spices and seasonings, and are budget-friendly. They are also good for you and will keep you satiated for a long time.
Here are a few of the most popular egg recipes that are often made for breakfast in Indian homes.
Egg bhurji
If making an omelette seems intimidating, make this egg bhurji instead. It is an easy recipe for you to get started if you are new to cooking. Think of it as scrambled eggs but with a little bit of pizzazz, i.e., onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and finely chopped cilantro.
Enjoy this anda bhurji with toasted bread or pav.
Indian omelet
Making an omelette may seem like the easiest dish to make, but there are a few simple steps that you need to follow so that it doesn’t fall apart when you flip them. Get all the tips and tricks in the recipe below.
Bombay French Toast
Shake up your morning routine and whip up a quick and easy batch of Indian-style French toast. This fluffy, easy breakfast recipe sweetens up any day!
Egg paratha
Egg parathas fill you up quickly and keep you satiated for a long time – that’s why serving them for breakfast or brunch makes complete sense. Use leftover rotis or tortillas to cut short the cooking time.
Breakfast + Snack
Some Indian breakfast items can be made in advance, like the appams from the south and khaman, dhokla and theplas from the west. What’s awesome about these dishes are that they double up as snacks as well. Also, since they are shelf-stable for a few days, they are great for long-distance travel.
Guri appa
This guri appa is a versatile Mangalorean dish that is a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack.
Rava dhokla
Looking for a quick Gujarati White Dhokla recipe? Use this easy recipe to make Instant Rava Dhokla in your Instant Pot. It is a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Nylon khaman
If you never had khaman before, imagine a bright yellow savory cake that is soft and fluffy. When you take a bite of this steamed cake along with green chutney, it just melts away in your mouth.
Methi thepla
Methi thepla, a flatbread made from fenugreek leaves (methi) is one of the iconic dishes from the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is a versatile dish that makes for a popular breakfast or snack.
Breakfast drink
Indian breakfast is usually accompanied by tea or coffee. So this post would be incomplete without sharing the recipes for India’s most loved beverages.
Masala chai
Get this authentic recipe for Masala Chai – a popular beverage from India! This fragrant, comforting, spiced tea is also the inspiration behind the chai tea craze in the US. Learn how to make it home in less than 15 minutes!
Ginger tea (Adrak chai)
Ginger tea is a perfect accompaniment to Indian breakfast and snacks. Get the recipe to make India’s beloved drink at home.
Filter coffee
While tea is a popular drink across India, South Indians can’t get enough of their filtered coffee. Just like tea, it is served with breakfast as well as with evening snacks.
Other easy breakfast recipes to try
- Instant Pot Creamy Oatmeal
- Easy Chocolate Overnight Oats
- 5-Minute Mango Overnight Oats
- Delicious Green Smoothie
- Creamy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
35+ Best Indian Breakfast Recipes
Ingredients
Idlis and dosas
Parathas and chillas
For Egg lovers
Breakfast + Snack
Breakfast drink
- Masala chai
- Ginger tea Adrak chai
- Filter coffee
Instructions
- To select your favorite recipe, click on one of the links above.
- Gather all the ingredients.
- Enjoy the recipe!
Disclaimer: Approximate nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and can vary depending on the exact ingredients/brands used. If you have health issues, please work with a registered dietician or nutritionist.
