Try these vegetarian breakfasts from Lakshadweep
What's the story
Lakshadweep, a cluster of islands off the southwestern coast of India, is famous for its pristine beaches and rich culture. The local cuisine is largely influenced by the island's natural resources and cultural diversity. While there are plenty of vegetarian breakfast options that reflect the region's unique flavors, seafood is a common choice. Here are five delightful vegetarian breakfasts from Lakshadweep that you must try.
Dish 1
Appam with vegetable stew
Appam is a soft and fluffy rice pancake with a lacy edge. It is often paired with vegetable stew, a coconut milk-based dish with potatoes, carrots, and green beans. The combination makes for a wholesome breakfast option that is both filling and nutritious. The sweetness of appam complements the savory stew perfectly, making it a favorite among locals.
Dish 2
Puttu with banana
Puttu is a traditional Kerala dish made of steamed rice flour and coconut layers. In Lakshadweep, it is often served with ripe bananas for breakfast. This simple yet satisfying meal provides carbohydrates and natural sugars to kickstart your day. The soft texture of puttu goes well with the creamy banana, giving you a delightful contrast in every bite.
Dish 3
Idiyappam with coconut milk
Idiyappam, or string hoppers, is another popular breakfast choice in Lakshadweep. Prepared by pressing rice flour dough into thin noodles, idiyappam is typically served with coconut milk drizzled over it. The mild flavor of idiyappam goes perfectly with the rich taste of coconut milk, making it an ideal choice for those who like subtle flavors.
Dish 4
Vegetable upma
Vegetable upma is a savory porridge-like dish prepared from semolina or coarse rice flour cooked with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and beans. In Lakshadweep's tropical climate, this light yet filling meal makes for an ideal start to the day. Its mildly spiced flavor profile makes it appealing to different palates.
Dish 5
Chappathi with chana dal curry
Chappathi is an unleavened flatbread made from whole wheat flour, commonly consumed across India. It has its own twist in Lakshadweep cuisine when paired with chana dal curry. This protein-rich chickpea lentil soup is mildly spiced with local flavors like cumin seeds or mustard seeds. These spices are tempered in oil before adding the cooked chickpeas, along with onions, tomatoes, and more. The soup is served hot alongside freshly made chappathis.