South Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of delicious and healthy breakfast options, many of which are steamed, making them light and nutritious. These dishes are not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients, offering a perfect start to your day.
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Steaming helps retain the natural flavours and nutritional value of the ingredients, making the meals both healthy and flavourful. From the ever-popular Idli to the sweet and fragrant Ela Ada, each dish has its own unique appeal. Here are some steamed South Indian breakfast options you can try at home to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying morning meal.
Idli
Idli is one of the most iconic South Indian breakfasts. Made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal (black gram), it is soft, fluffy, and light. The fermentation process not only enhances the flavour but also boosts its nutritional value by promoting healthy gut bacteria. Idlis are typically served with chutney and sambar, making it a balanced meal.
Ela Ada
Ela ada is a traditional Kerala dish made by steaming a mixture of rice flour and coconut jaggery filling inside a banana leaf. The banana leaf imparts a subtle flavour to the dish, and the combination of rice flour and sweet filling makes it both healthy and satisfying. Ela ada is a great option if you’re looking for something mildly sweet to start your day.
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Puttu
Puttu is another popular breakfast from Kerala. It is made by layering rice flour with grated coconut and steaming the mixture in a cylindrical steamer. Puttu is often served with kadala curry (black chickpea curry) or bananas, offering a perfect balance of flavours. The dish is rich in fibre and is a great choice for those who prefer a gluten-free breakfast.
Idiyappam
Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, is a delicate dish made from rice flour. The dough is pressed into thin strands using a special tool and then steamed. Idiyappam has a soft, light texture and is usually served with coconut milk, curry, or stew. It's a versatile dish that pairs well with both savoury and sweet accompaniments.
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Kozhukattai
Kozhukattai is a steamed dumpling made from rice flour and can be filled with a variety of sweet or savoury fillings. The sweet version, known as Modak, is often filled with coconut and jaggery, while the savoury version contains a spiced lentil mixture. It’s a traditional dish made during festivals, especially in Tamil Nadu.
Ragi Mudde
Ragi mudde is a popular steamed dish from Karnataka. It is made by cooking ragi (finger millet) flour in water and rolling it into balls. This nutrient-dense dish is rich in calcium, iron, and fibre, making it an excellent option for a healthy breakfast. Ragi mudde is typically served with sambar or spicy gravies.
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Kudumulu
Kudumulu, a traditional dish from Andhra Pradesh, is a steamed rice flour dumpling often prepared during festivals. It is made from rice flour and can be filled with jaggery and coconut for a sweet version or spiced lentils for a savoury one. The soft texture and simple ingredients make it a wholesome breakfast option.
Also Read: 8 South Indian Dishes That Feature Jaggery
Nuchinunde
Nuchinunde is a protein-packed steamed lentil dumpling from Karnataka. Made from a mixture of soaked lentils, coconut, and spices, it is rich in protein and fibre. Nuchinunde is often served with chutney or ghee, making for a nutritious and filling breakfast.
Vattayappam
Vattayappam is a steamed rice cake from Kerala, known for its soft, spongy texture. Made from fermented rice batter, coconut, and sugar, it has a mild sweetness and is often flavoured with cardamom. It’s a light, gluten-free breakfast option with tea or coffee.