Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and Shahid Kapoor couldn’t agree more. The actor swears by a hot, light morning meal, like a plate of idlis or uthappams, for its Ayurvedic benefits.
Starting your day with a nutritious Indian breakfast is like fuelling a high-performance engine. You may have noticed that skipping breakfast can make you cranky, hangry and a mean monster who should not be provoked. Breakfast provides the energy you need to conquer the day, stabilises blood sugar levels, and can even help with weight management and chronic disease prevention. To uncover the healthiest and easiest Indian breakfast options like the one that Shahid Kapoor endorses, we turned to clinical nutrition consultant and celebrity nutritionist Neha Sahaya.
Shahid Kapoor’s breakfast meal consists of South Indian food. Try these 5 Indian healthy meal options recommended by a celebrity-nutrionist, to get a ripped body like the actor
1. Moong dal chilla or moong dal idli
Moong dal chilla is a savoury pancake and is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with chutney or pickle. Moong dal idli is a steamed cake made from the same batter, but steamed in moulds for a fluffy texture. “This dish is high in protein and fibre. It helps in maintaining muscle mass and keeps you full for longer periods, aiding in weight management,” says Sahaya. “Moong dal also has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetics,” she adds. Both dishes are packed with protein and are a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. To make these delicacies, soak moong dal overnight, grind it into a smooth batter, season with spices, and cook either as a pancake or steam it in idli moulds.
2. Besan chilla
While both besan chilla and moong dal chilla are savoury Indian pancakes, they differ in their base ingredients. Besan chilla is made from gram flour, offering a slightly denser and chewy texture. It’s a quick and easy option as it doesn’t require soaking like moong dal. “Besan is rich in protein and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. The high protein content helps in muscle repair and growth, while the fibre aids in digestion,” Sahaya explains. “This dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance,” she adds. To make it, combine gram flour with water, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices. The batter should have a pouring consistency. Heat a tawa, pour a ladleful of batter, and spread it evenly. Cook on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
3. Masala oats with paneer
“Oats are a great source of soluble fibre and when combined with paneer, they provide a balanced meal rich in protein and healthy fats,” says Sahaya. And no, we aren’t endorsing pre-packed, boil-only masala oats that you get at any store. To make this dish, sauté your favourite vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and green chilies with spices like cumin, turmeric, and red chilli powder. Add water and oats, and cook until the oats are softened. Crumble paneer and stir it in. Season with additional spices and herbs like coriander and garam masala. Serve hot for a hearty and satisfying meal. “This combination supports heart health, helps in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and keeps you satiated,” Sahaya adds.
4. Sprouted moong beans
Sprouted moong beans are like nature’s little energy bombs, bursting with protein, vitamins, and minerals. To get these power-packed sprouts, just rinse and soak moong dal overnight, drain, and wrap them in a damp cloth for a couple of days. Voila—instant nutrition. They’re the perfect breakfast for Indians, offering a light, easily digestible start to your day and a hefty dose of energy. Think of it as a tiny green supercharger for your morning routine. “Sprouted moong beans are a rich source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.The sprouting process increases the fibre content, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation,” Sahaya explains.
5. Masala omelette
A classic breakfast dish, you can never go wrong with an egg omelette. “Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Rich in vitamins and minerals, eggs provide essential vitamins such as B12, D, and A, along with minerals like iron and selenium,” says the celebrity nutritionist. To elevate your egg game, whisk them up with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and a medley of Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, and red chilli powder. Cook this flavorful concoction in a pan until perfectly set. Whether paired with bread, toast, or savoured solo, it’s a versatile dish that transforms your morning routine into a gourmet adventure.
