Have you ever seen a fusion pairing which has left you undecided over its functionality? The Internet feels the same way about the viral Podi cream cheese bagel. An X user shared a picture of a breakfast sandwich from a popular cafe chain and captioned it, “I have seen things you people wouldn’t believe.”
The picture featured a half-sliced bagel sandwich with a podi and cream cheese filling. While cream cheese and bagel is a pretty popular pairing and is a staple for many, adding podi to this sandwich may shift its flavour profile significantly. Podi or Milagai podi which is also known as gunpowder is a spice mix that typically contains dried chilis, lentils or chickpeas, and sesame seeds. It has a subtle heat and is usually paired with idli and dosa.
This fusion pairing divided the Internet as the post got a plethora of comments and arguments from both fans and haters of this combination. “honestly it sounds yummy enough to try at least once,” wrote one user. “100% would try ngl i might make it at home,” wrote another user. Others were quick to make fun of this breakfast dish, “please tell me this is an april fools joke,” joked a user.
Podi has a slightly nutty aftertaste which should ideally go really well with a sesame bagel and a cream cheese. Moreover, podi can add a depth of flavour to the sandwich. So, maybe this pairing isn’t that bad after all? In case you’re a fan of east-meets-west breakfast ideas, explore these dishes.
Coconut Chai Overnight Oats
For this creamy breakfast item, mix rolled oats with coconut milk, chai tea concentrate, shredded coconut, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Let it sit in the fridge overnight to soak up the flavours. In the morning, top with toasted almonds and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added crunch and aroma. This wholesome and comforting breakfast is both nourishing and satisfying, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Tandoori Chicken Breakfast Wrap
You can easily transform leftovers from last night's dinner into a flavorful breakfast wrap. Fill a whole wheat tortilla with leftover tandoori chicken, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Drizzle with mint chutney or yoghurt sauce for a cooling contrast to the spicy chicken. You can roll it up and carry it for lunch too!
Turmeric Pancakes with Mango Compote
Give your pancakes a vibrant hue and a boost of antioxidants by adding turmeric to the batter. Cook until golden brown and fluffy, then serve with a tangy mango compote made from fresh mangoes, lemon juice, and a hint of honey or agave syrup. The combination of warm spices and tropical fruit creates a breakfast that's both indulgent and nutritious.
Spiced Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Fresh Berries
Put a spicy twist on the classic yoghurt parfait by layering Greek yoghurt with a blend of ground cardamom, cinnamon, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Alternate with layers of crunchy granola and fresh berries for a burst of sweetness and acidity. This fusion breakfast provides a satisfying crunch and a balance of protein, probiotics, and antioxidants to fuel your morning.
Paneer and Spinach Breakfast Quesadilla
Combine the flavours of India with the convenience of a Mexican-inspired quesadilla for a breakfast that's hearty and satisfying. Spread a whole wheat tortilla with mashed avocado, then layer with crumbled paneer, sauteed spinach, and a sprinkle of cumin and chilli powder. Fold in half and cook until golden and crispy on both sides. Serve with salsa or Greek yoghurt for dipping, creating a fusion breakfast that's as delicious as it is nutritious.
Mango Lassi Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter Drizzle
Blend frozen mango chunks with Greek yoghurt, a splash of almond milk, and a pinch of cardamom until smooth and creamy. Pour into a bowl and top with sliced almonds, fresh mangoes, and a drizzle of almond butter for added richness. This fusion breakfast is not only a feast for the senses but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to start your day on the right note.