If the very mention of India evokes heady images
of traditional saris, steamy jungle and softly swaying coconut palms, a visit
to Bangalore might be something of a culture shock. The number one city of
India’s deep south,
Bangalore enjoys direct competition with Mumbai for the prize accolade of most
successful and progressive city in the sub-continent. Those romantic ideals of
a traditional way of life are kicked to the curb in big city Bangalore - this
is a modern, urban landscape of fancy restaurants, trendy shopping malls and a
cosmopolitan nightlife.
This isn’t to say that Bangalore has fully lost sight of its heritage - its
culinary roots can be seen day in, day out, on those big city streets where a
mouth-watering array of authentic street food can be found. Whether dining in a
sophisticated eatery that rivals London’s best Indian fine dining restaurants or snacking at a street-side
stall, Bangalore cuisine can offer something for everyone, with both
vegetarians and non-vegetarians well catered for.
But one of the meals that the laid-back and
affluent Bangaloreansfavour above all others is a good, hearty breakfast. As a
result, the streets of Bangalore are paved with restaurants and cafes offering
breakfast and brunch specials. From Western treats, such as fluffy waffles
dripping with maple syrup, to traditional Indian idlis, served with a range of
chutneys, you can be sure to breakfast with a bang in Bangalore.
For the Indian food aficionado, there are a few
choice breakfast bites that simply must be tried whilst visiting Bangalore.
Here are some of our favourites:
Masala dosa
It would be a crime to visit South India and not
try a sumptuous masala dosa. These crisp Indian crepes are made from fermented
rice batter. Stuffed with a spiced, potato filling, they make a wholesome and
filling breakfast meal - hunger will stay locked up ’til lunch.
Meduvada
A traditional South Indian meal that can be
enjoyed at any time of the day, vadas are a comforting snack with a super soft
texture. They have a similar appearance to doughnuts with a neat little hole in
the centre - a perfect treat for a weekend breakfast.
Ravaidli
A quick and easy variation of the traditional
rice cake idli, ravaidli are prepared using semolina as the key ingredient.
Mixed with coriander, curds and cashew nuts, the rava cakes are seasoned with as afoetida,
ginger, curry leaves and green chillies. Consume with spicy pickles or smooth
coconut chutney.
Bisibele bath
This is a classic dish from Karnataka and a favorite at times of monsoon. The name loosely translates as ‘hot and sour lentil rice’ and the recipe pulses with flavour afforded
by warming spices like nutmeg, tangy tamarind and the distinctively Indian
taste of curry leaves.
Kesari bath
Some of us might prefer a taste of something
sweet first thing in the morning and Bangalore breakfasts have just the option.
Kesari bath is a popular dessert and breakfast food that originated in the
state of Karnataka - it is one of the breakfasts that Bangalore does best.
Created from rava, milk, fruit, nuts, a few strands of saffron and sugar, the
popularity of kesari bath has spread throughout the sub-continent to become one
of its favourite sweets.
