Indian breakfasts are usually very wholesome and delicious. From parathas to idlis, dosas to cheelas, masala omelettes to Upma, there is so much variety there. But very often, we find that they tip towards being carbohydrate heavy. Here are some ways in which traditional Indian breakfasts can be made more protein packed and healthy.
Idlis and Dosas
Idlis and dosas are traditional South Indian breakfasts that are often served with sambar (lentils with vegetables) and coconut chutney.
Reduce the number of idlis you eat and add a protein side like scrambled eggs, tofu scramble or paneer scramble to your breakfast for more protein.
Get the recipe: Soft idli
Vegetable Upma
Traditional Upma is made with rava or semolina. Add loads of veggies to your Upma and use quinoa or broken wheat/bulgur.
This ups the protein and fibre content in your Upma. Add a boiled egg on the side or a vegetarian option like a bowl of yogurt for even more protein.
Get the recipe: Quinoa Upma
Cheelas or Pancakes
Make nutritious cheelas using chickpea flour batter, moong dal or sprouted mung beans.
Also add a filling of cheese/paneer to make it even more filling and higher in protein. You can also add soy mince filling if you are vegan.
Get the recipe: Moonglet Recipe
Parathas
Adding grated paneer to the filling of potato for aloo paratha or grated veggies makes it more nutritious and filling.
Also add a large bowl of yogurt and some beans or lentils on the side for an more rounded breakfast.
Get the recipe: Gobhi Paratha
Poha
Make poha with unpolished or red rice poha that has more fibre for satiety. Serve your poha with a side of scrambled egg or scrambled paneer bhurji. That will be sure to add protein to an otherwise carb-heavy breakfast.
Get the recipe: Poha
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