Authentic Indian Poha: Flattened Rice Breakfast Delight

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of Poha (flattened rice)
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup of green peas
  • 1/2 cup of carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the poha in a sieve and rinse under running water until it softens. Drain the excess water and set aside.
  2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add the chopped green chilies and onions. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
  3. Add the turmeric powder to the pan and stir well.
  4. Add the chopped carrot and green peas to the pan. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked.
  5. Add the rinsed poha, salt, and sugar (if using) to the pan. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook for a further 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the poha doesn't stick to the pan.
  6. Turn off the heat, add the lemon juice and mix well.
  7. Garnish with the chopped coriander leaves and roasted peanuts before serving.

Tools for making

  • Pan - A medium-sized pan for cooking the poha and vegetables.
  • Sieve - A kitchen tool used for rinsing and draining the poha.
  • Spatula - A utensil for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the onions, green chilies, and carrots.
  • Cutting Board - A surface for safely chopping the vegetables.
  • Lemon Squeezer - An optional tool for extracting juice from the lemon.
  • Measuring Cups - For accurately measuring the ingredients.

Recipe variations

  • Replace vegetable oil with ghee (clarified butter) for a richer flavor.
  • Add finely grated fresh coconut to enhance the taste.
  • Include diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
  • Add roasted cashews or almonds instead of peanuts for a different nutty twist.
  • For a spicier version, add red chili powder or finely chopped red chilies.
  • Add diced tomatoes for a tangy kick.
  • Incorporate curry leaves for a more authentic South Indian flavor.
  • For a protein-packed variation, add cooked chickpeas or tofu.
  • Include grated ginger for a hint of warmth and aroma.
  • Try substituting poha with flattened rice made from other grains like wheat or millets.

Recipe overview

Poha is a popular Indian breakfast dish that's light, flavorful and easy to make. This recipe uses flattened rice as the main ingredient, mixed with a variety of fresh vegetables and spices for a nutritious start to your day. The process involves rinsing the poha until it softens, sautéing it with onions, green chilies and a selection of spices, then combining it with cooked vegetables. A squeeze of lemon juice is added for a tangy kick and the dish is garnished with fresh coriander and roasted peanuts for extra taste and crunch. This dish is not just wholesome and filling, but also a delicious way to experience Indian cuisine at home. Get ready to delight your taste buds with the wonderful flavors of this easy-to-make Poha.

Common questions

  1. Can I use thick poha instead of thin poha? Yes, you can use thick poha instead of thin poha. However, the cooking time may vary, so make sure to soak the thick poha in water for a few minutes before rinsing and cooking.
  2. Can I skip the green chilies? Yes, you can skip the green chilies if you prefer a milder taste. However, the green chilies add a nice flavor and slight heat to the dish.
  3. Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil? Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored cooking oil like canola or sunflower oil as a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
  4. Is sugar necessary in this recipe? Sugar is optional in this recipe. It helps to balance the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness. You can omit it if you prefer.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the poha? Absolutely! Poha is versatile, and you can add vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or potatoes according to your preference.
  6. Can I make this recipe in advance? While it's best to enjoy poha immediately after cooking, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them when you're ready to serve. However, the texture may change slightly if it sits for too long.
  7. What can I serve with poha? Poha is often enjoyed on its own as a light and flavorful breakfast or snack. However, you can pair it with a side of yogurt, chutney, or pickle for added taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
  • Sieve - Used for rinsing and draining the poha.
  • Pan - A frying pan or skillet for cooking the poha.
  • Spatula - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Knife - To chop the onions, green chilies, and carrots.
  • Cutting Board - To provide a surface for chopping the vegetables.
  • Measuring Cups - For accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Lemon Squeezer - Optional, but helpful for extracting juice from lemons.
  • Garnishing Spoon - A spoon for sprinkling the chopped coriander leaves and roasted peanuts on top of the poha.

Origin stories

Poha, a staple breakfast dish in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, owes its origins to the simple need for a quick and nutritious start to the day. Poha is made from flattened rice, making it a digestible form of raw rice. The dish has a fascinating history. The farmers of Madhya Pradesh, after a long day of work in the fields, needed a light yet energizing meal. Thus, poha was born. Traditionally, it was served with a side of jaggery for added energy. Over time, as it travelled to other parts of the country, the recipe evolved with regional touches. Today, its simple and versatile nature has made it a beloved breakfast item across India, providing a wholesome and delicious start to the day.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.