11 South Indian Breakfast Recipes Healthier Than Cereal

5. Pesarattu (moong dal dosa)

Pesarattu is a green pancake made primarily from whole or split moong dal (green gram), blended into a batter and pan-cooked like a dosa. Because it’s lentil-first, pesarattu is higher in plant protein than rice-based dosas and far more protein-rich than typical cereal. It often includes onions and chilies, and cooks quickly without fermentation—perfect for a same-day breakfast. Pair it with ginger or peanut chutney to add healthy fats and extra calories for longer satiety. Pesarattu is a favorite in Andhra and Telangana households and commonly appears in tiffin boxes. For North American kitchens, whole moong or split yellow moong work well if soaked before blending. Athletes and busy professionals will appreciate this format: it’s portable and digestible, and it supports steady energy without the sugar crash associated with many cereals. Small additions like a sprinkle of sesame seeds increase micronutrients without altering flavor.