Poha Recipe

Poha, a cherished breakfast staple from the western and central regions of India, is more than just a quick meal—it’s a cultural experience that balances simplicity with flavors. Made from flattened rice, Poha is light yet nourishing, and incredibly versatile. Whether you are rushing to start your day or looking for a wholesome mid-morning snack, Poha has you covered with its ease of preparation and delightful taste.

What is Poha?

Poha is a popular Indian dish made from flattened rice that has been parboiled, rolled, flattened, and then dried. It’s a staple breakfast or snack in many parts of India, especially in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Poha is known for its quick preparation and versatility, often made savory or slightly sweet depending on regional variations.

Here’s a breakdown of Poha

1. Base Ingredient: Flattened rice (also called “chivda” in some regions), which absorbs flavors easily and cooks very quickly.
2. Common Ingredients: Onions, green chilies, mustard seeds, curry leaves, turmeric, peanuts, and coriander. Some variations include potatoes, peas, or even grated coconut.
3. Spices: Turmeric is commonly added for color and subtle flavor, along with mustard seeds, cumin, and green chilies for seasoning.
4. Serving Style: It’s often garnished with fresh coriander, lemon juice, and sometimes sev (crispy chickpea noodles) for added texture.
5. Nutrition: Poha is light, gluten-free, and easily digestible. It provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, especially when paired with peanuts or veggies.

Why choose Poha as a Breakfast

What makes Poha stand out is its ability to absorb the flavors of the spices and ingredients it is cooked with, while still maintaining its delicate texture. Traditionally, it’s seasoned with mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves, giving it a warm, earthy flavor. But don’t stop there! The beauty of Poha lies in its adaptability—you can enhance it with crunchy peanuts, grated coconut, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon to add a tangy twist.

In regions like Maharashtra, where it’s known as Kanda Poha, finely chopped onions are added, creating a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices. Some people also add potatoes or peas for extra texture and heartiness. Whether served with a hot cup of chai or a side of yogurt, Poha is an all-rounder dish that promises satisfaction without the heaviness.

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Detailed Recipes of Poha

At Recipe Rahasya, I love experimenting with traditional recipes while keeping their authenticity intact. Join me as we dive into the secrets of making this iconic dish perfect every time. Get ready to turn a handful of simple ingredients into a flavorful and nutritious dish that is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Poha

Poha is a light and flavorful Indian breakfast made from flattened rice, tossed with mustard seeds, curry leaves, onions, and green chilies. It's often garnished with fresh coriander, lemon juice, and peanuts for added crunch. Nutritious and quick to prepare, Poha is a perfect start to the day.

5 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine Indian

Servings 5

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups poha (flattened rice)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• ½ cup peanuts
• 1 potato, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 10-12 curry leaves
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon oil (preferably mustard oil)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Sev (optional), for garnish

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Poha – Rinse the poha in a strainer under running water for a few seconds. The poha should become soft but not mushy. Set aside and allow the excess water to drain.
• Roast the Peanuts – Heat a pan on medium flame and dry roast the peanuts until golden and crunchy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• Tempering the Spices – Heat oil in the same pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add cumin seeds. Add green chilies and curry leaves, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Sauté the Vegetables – Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. If you’re using potatoes, add them now and cook until tender. You can cover the pan to speed up the cooking process.
• Add Turmeric and Seasonings – Add turmeric powder, salt, and sugar. Stir well. Now add the softened poha to the pan and mix gently so that the turmeric coats the poha evenly.
• Roast the Poha – Cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the poha is heated through.
• Finishing Touches – Add the roasted peanuts and mix well. Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh coriander leaves and lemon juice over the poha. Optionally, top with sev for extra crunch.
• Serve – Serve hot with an additional sprinkle of lemon juice or some yogurt on the side.

Notes

This recipe makes a simple, yet flavorful breakfast or snack, and it can be customized with the addition of vegetables or toppings based on your preference!

Types of Poha from Different Regions

1. Kanda Poha (Maharashtra) – A classic preparation made with sautéed onions, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Garnished with lemon juice and sev, it’s a tangy and flavorful breakfast staple.
2. Batata Poha (Maharashtra) – This version includes soft, diced potatoes, making it more filling. It’s perfect for a hearty meal with the same familiar spices like turmeric and curry leaves.
3. Indori Poha (Madhya Pradesh) – Famous for its sweet and savory balance, It is sweetened with sugar and topped with Jeeravan masala. Garnishes like sev, pomegranate seeds, and raw onions make it a colorful and delicious dish.
4. Gujarati Poha (Gujarat) – This version has a mild sweetness, achieved by adding sugar along with peanuts, green chilies, and mustard seeds. It’s often garnished with coconut and coriander, creating a lovely contrast of flavors and textures.
5. Chirer Poha (West Bengal) – This Bengali version includes sautéed vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes, along with cashews and raisins for a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
6. Goan Poha (Goa) – It is known as Phovu and comes in both sweet and savory forms. The savory version is made with onions and grated coconut, while the sweet version uses jaggery and coconut, often eaten as a snack.
7. Kerala Aval Nanachathu (Kerala) – A simple, sweet dish made with flattened rice, jaggery, grated coconut, and cardamom. Often served as a snack or dessert, it’s light and naturally sweetened.

It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Its light texture, flavorful spices, and customizable nature make it a go-to for breakfast or a quick snack. The balance of soft flattened rice with crunchy peanuts, tangy lemon, and aromatic spices brings a comforting yet exciting experience to your plate.

So, the next time you’re looking for a wholesome and flavorful dish that comes together in minutes, turn to Poha. It’s an authentic Indian recipe that not only fills your stomach but warms your soul. Let this humble yet delicious dish become a regular in your culinary repertoire, and enjoy the simplicity of Indian comfort food at its finest!

You can also Try Samosa, Aloo Paratha, Pav Bhaji also for you quick breakfast.

At Recipe Rahasya, it’s always a joy to explore the richness of traditional recipes, offering you the secrets to mastering these dishes in your own kitchen. I hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness to your home. Also don’t forget to share your experience with us.

Let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Happy Cooking, Recipe Rahasya.

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