Indian vegetarian breakfasts are a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and wholesome nutrition. One of the most beloved categories in this repertoire is bread-based breakfast recipes.
From stuffed parathas to spicy toast, these dishes not only satisfy your morning hunger but also provide a comforting start to the day. Whether you’re a fan of hearty, wholesome meals or enjoy quick bites, Indian vegetarian bread breakfasts have something for everyone.
In this post, I’ll be sharing three delicious Indian vegetarian bread breakfast recipes that are easy to make and perfect for busy mornings: Aloo Paratha (stuffed potato flatbread), Masala Bread Upma, and Besan Toast (chickpea flour savory toast).
Each recipe brings its own unique taste and nutritional benefits to the table. Let’s dive in and transform your breakfast routine with these flavorful creations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Quick: These bread-based recipes require minimal prep and cook time, making them ideal for busy mornings.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and plant-based proteins, these breakfasts keep you full and energized.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, these recipes are sure to please every palate.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Authentic Flavors: Get a true taste of Indian home cooking in every bite.
Ingredients
Aloo Paratha (Stuffed Potato Flatbread)
Whole wheat flour | 2 cups |
Boiled potatoes | 3 medium, mashed |
Green chili | 1, finely chopped |
Fresh coriander leaves | 2 tbsp, chopped |
Garam masala | 1/2 tsp |
Red chili powder | 1/2 tsp |
Amchur (dry mango powder) | 1/2 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Oil or ghee | for cooking |
Water | as needed |
Masala Bread Upma
Bread slices | 6 (preferably whole wheat) |
Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
Tomato | 1 medium, chopped |
Green chili | 1, chopped |
Ginger | 1 tsp, grated |
Mustard seeds | 1/2 tsp |
Curry leaves | 6-8 |
Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
Red chili powder | 1/2 tsp |
Peas (optional) | 1/4 cup |
Salt | to taste |
Oil | 2 tbsp |
Fresh coriander leaves | for garnish |
Besan Toast (Chickpea Flour Savory Toast)
Bread slices | 4 |
Besan (chickpea flour) | 1 cup |
Onion | 1 small, finely chopped |
Tomato | 1 small, finely chopped |
Green chili | 1, chopped |
Fresh coriander | 2 tbsp, chopped |
Red chili powder | 1/2 tsp |
Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
Salt | to taste |
Water | as needed |
Oil | for toasting |
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin (for paratha)
- Flat griddle (tawa) or non-stick pan
- Spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate for serving
Instructions
Aloo Paratha
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, add whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water and knead to form a soft, smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine mashed boiled potatoes, green chili, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, amchur, and salt. Mix well.
- Assemble Parathas: Divide the dough into equal balls. Roll out one ball into a small circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and bring the edges together to seal. Gently flatten and roll into a 6-inch circle.
- Cook the Paratha: Heat a tawa or griddle on medium heat. Place the rolled paratha on it. Cook for 1 minute, flip, and spread some oil/ghee on top. Flip again and cook both sides until golden brown spots appear.
- Serve hot with yogurt and pickle.
Masala Bread Upma
- Prep the Bread: Cut the bread slices into small cubes. Set aside.
- Sauté Spices: Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves, green chili, and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Cook the Veggies: Add onion and sauté until translucent. Add tomato, peas, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes are soft.
- Add Bread: Toss in the bread cubes and mix well so the spices coat the bread. Add salt and cook for 2-3 minutes more, stirring gently.
- Finish: Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot.
Besan Toast
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together besan, onion, tomato, green chili, coriander, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Add water gradually to make a thick, smooth batter.
- Dip the Bread: Heat a non-stick pan with a little oil. Dip each bread slice into the besan batter, coating both sides evenly.
- Toast: Place the coated bread on the pan. Cook on medium heat until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve hot with chutney or ketchup.
Tips & Variations
- For Aloo Paratha: Add some grated paneer to the potato mixture for extra protein and a creamy texture.
- For Bread Upma: Use multigrain or leftover bread for more fiber and less waste.
- For Besan Toast: Add grated carrots or spinach to the batter for a veggie boost.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough or potato filling the night before to save time in the morning.
- Spice Level: Adjust green chilies and red chili powder as per your taste.
“Always rest the dough for parathas for at least 15 minutes. This makes them softer and easier to roll without tearing.”
Nutrition Facts
Recipe | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aloo Paratha (1) | 210 | 6g | 38g | 4g | 5g |
Bread Upma (1 serving) | 180 | 5g | 30g | 4g | 3g |
Besan Toast (1 slice) | 150 | 6g | 20g | 5g | 2g |
Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on specific brands and quantities used.
Serving Suggestions
- Aloo Paratha: Best served with chilled yogurt, homemade pickle, and a knob of butter. Try pairing with our “Mint Coriander Chutney” for a fresh twist.
- Masala Bread Upma: Enjoy with a cup of masala chai or a side of “Spicy Tomato Chutney” for a tangy kick.
- Besan Toast: Serve with green chutney, plain yogurt, or even our “Instant Mango Pickle” for an extra zing.
- Packed Breakfast: All these recipes can be packed for lunchboxes—just wrap them in foil to keep them warm and soft.
Conclusion
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and with these Indian vegetarian bread recipes, you can make it the most delicious as well! From the comforting warmth of Aloo Paratha to the spicy kick of Masala Bread Upma and the protein-packed Besan Toast, these dishes offer a wonderful variety for your morning table.
Each recipe is simple enough for beginners yet flavorful enough to impress family and guests alike.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings, spices, or accompaniments to suit your preferences. These breakfast ideas are not just tasty—they’re also nourishing and adaptable.
Try them out, share with friends, and let the magic of Indian mornings brighten your day. For more breakfast inspiration, check out our other recipes like “Moong Dal Chilla” and “Vegetable Poha”.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Masala Bread Upma
Description: Masala Bread Upma is a quick and flavorful Indian breakfast made with bread, vegetables, and spices. It's a perfect way to use leftover bread for a filling vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices whole wheat bread, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, chopped
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds.
- Once they splutter, add onions and green chili. Sauté till onions turn translucent.
- Add tomatoes and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add bread cubes and toss to coat with the masala.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until bread is slightly crisp.
- Turn off heat, add lemon juice and cilantro.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 30 g
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