Food of the day: Try this South Indian food, Kuzhi Paniyaram, a favourite of R Madhavan, with this simple recipe

When it comes to breakfast, few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort, taste, and nutrition quite like Kuzhi Paniyaram. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavour, this beloved South Indian dish has long been a household favourite. It is also a breakfast choice appreciated by actor R. Madhavan, who has often spoken about his love for simple, traditional foods. If you're looking to break away from toast, cereals, or heavy fried breakfasts, Kuzhi Paniyaram deserves a place on your plate.

What is Kuzhi Paniyaram?

Kuzhi Paniyaram is a traditional South Indian snack and breakfast dish made from fermented idli or dosa batter. The batter is cooked in a special paniyaram pan that contains several small round moulds, giving the dish its distinctive shape.

The result is bite-sized dumplings that are golden and crisp on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy within. Because they are made using fermented batter, they are easy to digest and offer the nutritional benefits associated with fermented foods.

Why it makes an excellent breakfast?

One of the biggest advantages of Kuzhi Paniyaram is that it provides sustained energy without feeling overly heavy. The fermented rice and lentil batter contains carbohydrates for energy and protein from urad dal. Unlike many deep-fried breakfast options, paniyarams require only a small amount of oil. They are filling, easy to prepare, and can be customised with vegetables and spices to boost their nutritional value.

The combination of flavour, texture, and convenience makes them ideal for busy mornings.

Kuzhi Paniyaram recipe

Ingredients
- 2 cups fermented idli or dosa batter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green chilli, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated carrot
- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon urad dal
- A few curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- 1 to 2 teaspoons oil

Method

- Heat a small pan and add a little oil.

- Add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.

- Add urad dal and sauté until lightly golden.

- Add curry leaves, onions, and green chilli. Cook for a few minutes.

- Mix this tempering into the fermented batter.

- Add grated carrot, coriander leaves, and salt if needed.

- Heat a paniyaram pan and lightly grease each mould.

- Pour the batter into the moulds until nearly full.

- Cook on medium heat until the bottom turns golden brown.

- Flip each paniyaram and cook the other side until crisp and serve hot.

What to pair it with for a wholesome breakfast

While Kuzhi Paniyaram tastes great on its own, pairing it with nutrient-rich sides can transform it into a balanced breakfast.

Coconut chutney
Fresh coconut chutney is the classic accompaniment. It adds healthy fats and complements the savoury flavour of the paniyaram beautifully.

Sambar
A bowl of vegetable-rich sambar increases the protein, fibre, and micronutrient content of the meal. It also makes the breakfast more filling.

Peanut chutney
Peanut chutney provides additional protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for those looking for a more satisfying breakfast.

Fresh fruit
A serving of papaya, banana, apple, or seasonal fruit adds natural sweetness, fibre, and vitamins to the meal.

Curd or buttermilk
A small bowl of curd or a glass of buttermilk can further support digestion and provide extra protein and calcium.

With its crispy texture, comforting taste, and versatility, it remains one of South India's most loved morning dishes.