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Indian Breakfast Ideas from Your Pantry

Many classic Indian breakfasts come together from pantry staples in 15–20 minutes. Keep a few ingredients on hand and you can rotate through savoury, filling options all week.

Quick pantry breakfasts

• Poha: rinse flattened rice, then cook with mustard seeds, onion, turmeric and peanuts.
• Upma: roast semolina and simmer with vegetables and tempered spices.
• Besan chilla: a savoury gram-flour pancake with onion, tomato and coriander.
• Instant mixes: idli, dosa and dhokla mixes need only water or yoghurt.

Pantry list

• Poha, suji (semolina) and besan.
• Peanuts, mustard seeds, curry leaves (dried or frozen) and turmeric.
• Ready mixes for idli, dosa or upma for busy mornings.

Make it more filling

• Add vegetables such as peas, carrots or potatoes.
• Serve with yoghurt or a boiled egg for extra protein.

Frequently asked questions

What is the quickest Indian breakfast?

Poha and upma both take about 15–20 minutes from pantry ingredients.

Are instant idli and dosa mixes good?

They are a convenient shortcut; follow the pack for water ratios and resting times.

Which poha should I buy?

Thick poha holds its shape better for savoury poha; thin poha suits quick snacks and chivda.

Product availability, prices and shipping are set by the store and can change.