5 delicious gluten-free breakfast ideas for a healthy start

Going gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste or nutrition. Whether you have gluten intolerance, coeliac disease, or simply want a healthier diet, these gluten-free Indian breakfast ideas are easy to prepare, nutritious, and packed with flavour.

BESAN CHILLA (GRAM FLOUR PANCAKES)

Besan (gram flour) is a great gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, rich in protein and fibre. This savoury pancake is light yet filling and can be customised with various vegetables and spices.

How to make it

• Mix besan with water, turmeric, salt, and chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and spinach.

• Add cumin and coriander powder for extra flavor.

• Cook in a non-stick pan until golden brown on both sides.

• Serve with mint chutney or yogurt.

Why it’s great?

• High in protein

• Easy to digest

• Quick to prepare

SABUDANA KHICHDI (TAPIOCA PEARL STIR-FRY)

Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is naturally gluten-free and is a popular breakfast option in India, especially during fasting days. It’s a light yet energy-boosting dish.

How to make it

• Soak sabudana overnight and drain excess water.

• Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin, green chilies, and peanuts.

• Add the soaked sabudana, mix well, and cook for a few minutes.

• Garnish with coriander and serve hot with lemon juice.

Why it’s great?

RAGI DOSA (FINGER MILLET CREPES)

Ragi, or finger millet, is a powerhouse of nutrients and naturally gluten-free. Ragi dosa is an excellent alternative to regular wheat-based dosas.

How to make it

• Mix ragi flour with curd, water, salt, and a pinch of cumin.

• Let it rest for 15 minutes.

• Cook on a tawa like a regular dosa until crisp.

• Serve with coconut chutney or sambar.

Why It’s great?

POHA (FLATTENED RICE STIR-FRY)

Poha is made from flattened rice, which is naturally gluten-free and light on the stomach. It’s a quick and easy breakfast packed with flavor and nutrients.

How to make it

• Wash poha and drain excess water.

• Heat oil, add mustard seeds, green chilies, onions, and turmeric.

• Add poha and mix well with salt and lemon juice.

• Garnish with fresh coriander and roasted peanuts.

Why It’s great?

QUINOA UPMA

Quinoa is a superfood that is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein. Quinoa upma is a modern twist on the traditional upma made with semolina.

How to make it

• Cook quinoa with water until soft.

• In a pan, saut mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and vegetables.

• Add cooked quinoa, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

• Mix well and serve hot.

Why it’s great?

• High in protein and fiber

• Keeps you full for longer

• A perfect alternative to semolina upma

These gluten-free breakfast ideas are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to keep you energised throughout the day. Whether you prefer a light, crispy dosa or a hearty bowl of poha, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a gluten-free breakfast without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Pair these dishes with fresh juices, herbal teas, or smoothies for an extra boost of energy!