Welcome back to Plate Full of Yum! Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite breakfast recipes: Poha. This simple yet delightful dish holds a special place in my heart. I fell in love with this dish during a visit to Mumbai, where my sister introduced me to the very famous local Kanda Poha.
Poha, also known as flattened rice, is a popular breakfast staple across India. Its light, fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it an incredibly versatile ingredient. What makes it truly special is its simplicity and the speed with which you can whip it up. In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and wholesome meal ready to enjoy.
Poha
Poha is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables and adjust the spices to your liking. Plus, the combination of soft poha, crunchy peanuts, and the tangy hint of lemon juice creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups thick poha
- 1/4 cup peanuts
- 1 tablespoon oil (for peanuts)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/3 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/5 teaspoon asafetida
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 2 sprigs curry leaves
- 1 medium potato, diced into small cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Rinse 2 cups of thick poha in a large sieve under running water. Set aside to soften.
- Next, in a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and roast 1/4 cup of peanuts until golden and crunchy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds and 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add 1/5 teaspoon asafetida and stir. Add 1 large, chopped onion, 2 slit green chilies, and 2 sprigs of curry leaves. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
- Add 1 medium potato, diced into small cubes. Sauté with the onions and spices. Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the rinsed and softened poha to the skillet. Sprinkle with a little more salt to taste and mix everything gently. Avoid overmixing to prevent the poha from becoming lumpy or mushy.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of water over the poha, cover, and cook on low heat for 2 minutes. This step avoids it from becoming dry.
- Finish the Dish: Turn off the heat and add the roasted peanuts, 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves, 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Poha
Rinse the Poha Properly: Ensure the poha is well rinsed but not soaked. This helps it soften without becoming mushy.
Cook on Low Heat: After adding poha, cook on low heat to avoid overcooking and maintain the texture.
One of the reasons I love Poha is its health benefits. Made from flattened rice, it’s easy to digest and packed with essential nutrients. Unlike many other breakfast options, Poha doesn’t leave you feeling heavy. Instead, it gives you a light, energetic start to your day. Additionally, the inclusion of peanuts and vegetables in this recipe ensures a balanced meal.
Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this dish simple to prepare. Moreover, this dish is incredibly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want a quick, satisfying meal without compromising on nutrition or flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a light breakfast or a midday snack, Poha never fails to impress.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy Poha for breakfast or as a light snack. Its simplicity and flavor will surely make it a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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