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Breakfast is often regarded as the most important meal of the day, and in India, it takes on a special significance due to the vast and diverse range of breakfast options available. A hearty and nutritious breakfast provides the body with essential nutrients and energy to start the day. In India, where culinary traditions vary greatly from region to region, breakfast becomes an exploration of flavours, textures, and ingredients.
From the savoury delights of South Indian dosas and idlis to the spicy indulgence of North Indian parathas and puris, and the unique offerings of each state in between, India's breakfast culture mirrors its rich cultural tapestry. This diverse range of breakfasts not only satisfies the palate but also showcases the country's culinary heritage and the importance of a wholesome morning meal in fueling the vibrant lives of its people. Here are 10 different types of breakfasts from ten different places that you can savour.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra, has a vibrant breakfast culture that caters to the diverse tastes of its residents. One of the city's iconic breakfast items is the Vada Pav, a spicy batata vada served inside a soft pav, often accompanied by chutneys. Another popular choice is Misal Pav, topped with farsan and served with pav Additionally, Keema Pav, a flavourful minced meat dish, and Bun-Maska, a Parsi-style bread with butter, are also beloved options. The city's numerous street vendors and Irani cafes are the go-to spots for experiencing Mumbai's breakfast culture, where locals and tourists alike love to have these morning dose of flavour.
Delhi
Delhi's breakfast culture is as diverse as the city itself. A quintessential homely Delhi breakfast starts with aloo paratha a stuffed potato flatbread, served with fresh curd, white butter and tangy pickles. For a heartier option chole bhature is a beloved choice—a spicy chickpea curry paired with fluffy, deep-fried bhature. The city also offers a wide range of street food breakfast options, such as kachori with aloo sabzi, and samosa. Delhi's breakfast culture caters to all tastes, from the savoury to the spicy, and is an integral part of the city's food scene.
Amritsar
Amritsar has breakfast options that reflect the region's love for bold flavours. One of the most iconic breakfast dishes here is aloo kulcha or more fondly known as Amritsari kulcha soft, stuffed bread served with a delectably spiced potato curry. Chana puri is another popular choice, featuring deep-fried bread paired with a spicy chickpea curry that awakens the taste buds. For those seeking a sweeter start to their day, Jalebi, often enjoyed with a side of rabri is what you can go for. Amritsar's breakfast culture is a delightful blend of flavours and traditions, offering a hearty and satisfying start to the day.
Telangana
In Telangana, a staple morning favorite is Idli, served with a refreshing coconut chutney and a spicy sambar. Dosa is another popular choice— served with a variety of chutneys. Hyderabad is also known for Pesarattu, Upma, made from semolina, seasoned with spices and vegetables. The city's breakfast culture beautifully combines the flavours of South India with a unique Telangana twist.
Kerala
The quintessential Kerala breakfast is puttu and kadala, featuring steamed cylinders of rice and coconut served with black chickpea kadala. Another favorite is appam with ishtu, idiyappam or string hoppers, served with grated coconut and sugar or a spicy curry, is another staple. The liberal use of coconut, curry leaves, and aromatic spices is characteristic of Kerala's breakfast culture, creating a fusion of flavours that truly reflects the beauty of this coastal state.
Karnataka
Karnataka, has a diverse and cosmopolitan breakfast culture that caters to its diverse population. One of the city's most iconic breakfast items is the "Masala Dosa, typically served with coconut chutney and savoury sambar. Bangalore also offers upma. For those seeking a quick and filling breakfast, vada sambar is a popular street food, consisting of deep-fried vadas served with tangy sambar. The city's breakfast culture reflects its multicultural atmosphere, making it a food lover's paradise in the morning hours.
Mizoram
Mizoram, a northeastern state has a distinct breakfast culture that tells about the flavour palate of the Mizo people. A staple in Mizo breakfast is chhangban. Panch phoran tarkari is a popular accompaniment, which is a vegetable curry flavoured with a five-spice blend unique to the region. Sawhchiar is another traditional breakfast item, made from pounded rice and served with sugar or jaggery. The Mizoram breakfast culture also embraces indigenous ingredients like bamboo shoots and herbs, creating a delightful blend of flavours and textures that provide a glimpse into the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the region.
Kashmir
Kashmir, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, offers a rich breakfast culture. One of the most iconic Kashmiri breakfast items is sheermal, a saffron-infused sweet bread often served with a cup of Kashmiri noon chai. Tsochvoru is another beloved choice—a crispy, deep-fried bread served with a traditional pink-colored, salty tea called kahwah. Kashmir's breakfast culture offers a unique blend of flavours, warm hospitality, and a touch of exoticism, making it an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to savour it amidst the stunning landscapes of the Kashmir Valley.
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, has a breakfast culture that is deeply rooted in its traditional flavours and ingredients. A popular breakfast item in the state is poha and jalebi is another favourite often enjoyed with rabri, Madhya Pradesh also takes pride in its diverse street food scene, with options like aloo tikki, and sabudana khichdi, made from tapioca pearls seasoned with spices and roasted peanuts. The breakfast culture of Madhya Pradesh reflects the region's unique culinary heritage, offering a tasty and filling way to start the day.
Goa
Goa, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, offers a breakfast scene that combines local flavors with international influences. A quintessential Goan breakfast might include pão com chouriço, a bread roll stuffed with spicy pork sausages, reflecting the state's Portuguese heritage. Another popular choice is bebinca, a rich and layered coconut milk pudding often enjoyed as a sweet morning treat. sannas, fluffy steamed rice cakes, are served with spicy curries, showcasing the state's love for rice-based dishes. Goa's breakfast culture is also influenced by its coastal location, with seafood options like fish curry rice available for those who prefer a savoury start to their day.
