Poha (Indian Flattened Rice Dish)

Poha is a popular and comforting Indian breakfast dish made with flattened rice, onions, mustard seeds, and a blend of spices. This dish is easy to prepare, light, and packed with flavor, making it a great way to start your day. The best part is that it’s customizable to your taste! Whether you like it with peanuts, potatoes, or fresh herbs, Poha is a perfect balance of savory, crunchy, and aromatic. It’s quick to make, healthy, and can be served as a snack or light meal.

Why You’ll Love Poha

Poha is the perfect balance of textures, with the soft, fluffy rice and the crunchy peanuts. The spices give it a comforting, aromatic flavor, and the tang from the lemon juice adds a refreshing touch. It’s a dish that’s easy to customize based on your preferences, making it a go-to for busy mornings or a satisfying snack. It’s also light, nutritious, and won’t leave you feeling overly full!

What You Need to Make Poha

• 1 1/2 cups flattened rice (poha)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup boiled potatoes, cubed (optional)
• 1/4 cup peanuts, roasted (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Green chilies (optional)

How to Make Poha

1. Rinse the flattened rice in a colander under cold water for about 2-3 minutes. Let it drain and set aside to soften.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent.
4. If you’re using potatoes, add them to the pan and cook for a few minutes until they are slightly crispy.
5. Add the turmeric powder, chili powder (if using), and salt. Stir to mix.
6. Add the rinsed poha to the pan, and gently mix it with the spices. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Top with roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with green chilies if you like some heat.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

More Recipes:

• Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
• Pineapple Lemonade
• Watermelon Green Tea
• Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
• Homemade Sour Strawberry Gummies

Ideal for Breakfast or a Light Meal

This dish is great for breakfast, as it’s quick to make and keeps you feeling satisfied without being too heavy. It’s also a fantastic option for a light lunch or evening snack. Whether you’re in a rush or have time to sit and savor, Poha fits into any routine!

Fun Variations

If you want to change things up, you can add veggies like peas, carrots, or tomatoes for extra nutrition. A handful of grated coconut can add a rich flavor, or you could make it spicier by adding more chilies. To make it even heartier, toss in some paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or a boiled egg on top for extra protein!

FAQs for Poha (Indian Flattened Rice Dish)

Can I use any type of flattened rice for Poha?

Yes, you can use any variety of flattened rice available at your local store. Just ensure that it’s the kind meant for cooking, as there are different thicknesses available. Thin poha tends to cook faster, while thick poha might need a bit more soaking time.

Can I make Poha ahead of time?

Poha is best served fresh, as it can lose its texture when stored. However, if you need to make it in advance, store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave with a splash of water to soften it again.

What can I use instead of peanuts?

If you’re allergic to peanuts or simply don’t like them, you can use cashews, almonds, or even roasted chickpeas as a crunchy topping.

Can I make Poha without onions?

Absolutely! If you don’t have onions on hand or prefer to avoid them, you can skip them. The dish will still be flavorful, thanks to the spices. You could also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra texture.

Is Poha suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, Poha is naturally vegan, especially if you skip the addition of dairy products like yogurt or ghee. It’s a plant-based dish made with simple ingredients and can easily be made vegan by using oil instead of butter.

Can I add more vegetables to Poha?

Definitely! Poha is versatile and can be enhanced with a variety of vegetables like peas, carrots, or even corn. Feel free to customize it with what you have in your fridge for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

How can I make Poha spicier?

If you like a spicy kick, add more green chilies or chili powder while cooking. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes on top for an extra heat boost.

What can I serve with Poha?

Poha is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of yogurt or pickle for an added flavor. Some people also enjoy it with a cup of chai for the perfect breakfast combo!