Breakfast

14 recipes

Neer Dosa: Mangalorean Rice Crepes

Feathery, lacey rice crepes from Mangalore that cook in minutes and pair perfectly with a spicy kara chutney. Light, gluten-free, and wonderfully simple—these are the kind of dosas you make when you want something delicate and effortless.

Nool Chiratta Puttu

Light, steamy rice threads layered with fresh coconut—nool chiratta puttu is a comforting Kerala breakfast that feels special without fuss. Press, steam and serve with your favorite curry for a warm, traditional start to the day.

Broken Wheat Upma (Nurukku Gothambhu Upma)

A wholesome South Indian breakfast: nutty broken wheat cooked with fragrant spices and vegetables for a light, comforting upma that comes together quickly.

Kanchipuram Spicy Idli

A spiced temple-style idli from Kanchipuram, enriched with yogurt, ghee and whole spices for a warm, aromatic bite. Steam and serve hot with sambar or coconut chutney for a comforting breakfast or snack.

Whole-Wheat Bhatura

Light, puffy whole-wheat bhatura made with a touch of curd and egg for extra lift; these fried breads pair perfectly with spicy chole or your favorite curry. Make the dough ahead and let it rest for a pillowy texture.

Wheat Appam (Vellappam)

Light, lacy appams made with wheat flour and a simple batter—crispy around the edges and tender in the center. Resting the batter yields an airy texture that pairs beautifully with a spicy curry or mellow egg stew.

Masala Bread Upma

A quick, comforting South-Indian–style breakfast that turns stale bread into a spiced, savory upma. Ready in minutes and perfect for a bustling morning or a light dinner.

Spicy Ottada

Crisp-edged, savory ottada made from a simple maida and rice flour batter, studded with shallots, green chilies and curry leaves. Lightly fried until golden, these make a comforting South Indian-style breakfast that's gentle to prepare and full of flavor.

Masala Poha (Thick Poha Upma)

Light, fluffy and fragrant, this masala poha is a quick South Indian-style breakfast that comes together in minutes with pantry spices and a handful of vegetables.

Soft Steamed Idli With Coconut Chutney

Light, fluffy idli are classic South Indian steamed cakes made from rice and urad dal, perfect for a comforting breakfast. Serve them warm with fresh coconut chutney for a simple, satisfying meal.