Mornings can be a whirlwind. Between hitting the snooze button, rushing to get ready, and facing the day's challenges, breakfast often gets relegated to the back burner. But who says a healthy and satisfying breakfast must be a complicated affair?
In the spirit of "desi" (meaning local, of the Indian subcontinent) flavours, here are five delicious no-cook breakfast options that are quick, convenient, and packed with nutrition-
This outstanding breakfast combines the tangy coolness with the satisfying granola crunch and the sweetness of fresh fruit. Dahi, a staple in Indian households, is a powerhouse of probiotics and calcium, aiding digestion and strengthening bones. Choose plain yoghurt for a blank canvas, or explore flavoured options like mango or strawberry. Top it with your favourite granola- homemade or store-bought- for a dose of fibre and healthy fats. Finally, unleash your inner fruit artist! Diced apples, bananas, berries, or chopped mangoes add vitamins and antioxidants.
[Tip: Add chia seeds for extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids.]
Sprouted moong dal is a nutritional powerhouse. The sprouting process unlocks a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Soak the whole moong dal overnight, rinse thoroughly, and enjoy it raw in the morning. Their nutty flavour and satisfying crunch pair beautifully with chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Toss everything together with a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of chaat masala (a tangy spice blend) for a light and flavorful breakfast salad.
[Tip: Add chopped fresh herbs as coriander leaves for an extra burst of flavour.]
Thechchi, a traditional buttermilk drink, is a cooling and refreshing way to kickstart your day. Its probiotic properties aid digestion, while its electrolytes rehydrate your body. Poha, flattened rice flakes, are a pantry staple in many Indian households. For a no-cook option, soak poha in the chichi for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Add chopped cucumber, grated carrots, and green chillies for a textural and flavour contrast.
[Tip: Also, you can add chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for a protein boost.]
This vibrant concoction is a burst of flavour and a fantastic way to ensure you get your daily dose of vitamins. Choose a variety of seasonal fruits- apples, bananas, melons, mangoes, or berries – and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add chopped vegetables like cucumber, onions, and green chillies to balance the sweetness. A squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of chaat masala, and a dash of black salt create a tangy and savoury counterpoint.
[Tip: Add a sprinkle of roasted cumin seeds for a unique depth of flavour.]
Chivda, a savoury mixture of various ingredients, is a popular and convenient breakfast option. Store-bought varieties are readily available, but making your own allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavours. Combine roasted peanuts, cashews, and almonds for a protein boost. Add flattened rice, puffed rice, and roasted chana for different textures. For a burst of flavour, include chopped dried fruits like raisins and cranberries. Season the mixture with a dash of turmeric, red chilli powder, and chaat masala for a zesty kick.
[Tip: You can customize your chivda by adding chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or curry leaves.]
So! Ditch the snooze button and whip up one of these quick and easy meals for a healthy and energizing start to your day!
