Published By: Jayati

Love Idlis? Try these 5 yummy varieties for breakfast today!

You know that feeling when you start your day with a fermented treat like idli? It's like giving your gut a friendly hello! Time to upgrade those idlis and make them extra special!

Idli is such a comforting dish in Indian cuisine. It's like a little taste of home, especially if you're from the southern regions. Who can resist those fluffy, steamed rice cakes? They're like little clouds of happiness on your plate! And what's cool is, even though the traditional idli is made with rice and lentils, there are so many different versions out there! So, the next time you're craving some breakfast goodness, why not try a new idli variation? You never know, you might discover your new favourite!

Plain idli

The plain idli is a timeless favourite known for its simplicity and delicious taste. Made from a batter of fermented rice and urad dal (black gramme), these soft and fluffy rice cakes are like a warm embrace on any morning. They pair perfectly with an assortment of accompaniments such as chutneys, sambar, or a dollop of ghee to elevate their flavor. It's comfort food at its best, guaranteed to make your day a little brighter!

Kanchipuram idli 

Named after the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram idlis are a special treat known for their delicious taste and unique texture. They're made by combining rice, lentils, spices, and ghee, then steamed in traditional cylindrical molds. The result? A dense and aromatic rice cake that's simply irresistible! These idlis are typically served with a generous amount of ghee, making them a truly indulgent breakfast option. If you're a fan of idlis and want to try something beyond the usual plain ones, Kanchipuram idlis are definitely worth a taste!

Quinoa idli 

If you're someone who enjoys idli for breakfast and opts for a healthy bowl of quinoa for lunch, why not combine your two favourites and give 'quinoa idli' a try? With the increasing popularity of quinoa as a nutritious grain, quinoa idli has emerged as a modern twist. By replacing some of the rice with quinoa, this idli becomes a protein-rich and gluten-free option, perfect for those focused on their health and well-being.

Masala idli 

If you're up for a breakfast that feels a bit fancier, try out masala idlis. These tasty treats are packed with flavour thanks to a mix of spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and grated ginger. They smell amazing while cooking and taste even better! Serve them up with some coconut chutney or tangy tomato chutney for a truly satisfying meal.

Vegetable idli 

Vegetable idlis are a winner for breakfast because they're loaded with veggies, making them both healthy and vibrant. Simply finely chop carrots, peas, bell peppers, and any other veggies you love, then mix them into the idli batter before steaming. This adds a burst of flavour and texture to every mouthful. Not only do vegetable idlis look great, but they also provide a nourishing start to your day. 

Here's a handy tip to enhance your morning idli breakfast: prep your idli batter in advance! You can whip up a batch and store it in the fridge for 2–3 days. Alternatively, you can steam the idlis ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to dig in, just reheat the idlis in a steamer or microwave until they're warmed through. It's a time-saving trick that ensures a delicious breakfast every time!