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An image of poha on a plate.

Easy Poha Recipe

Light, fluffy, and full of flavour, this Easy poha recipe is the ultimate quick breakfast to fuel your training. Made with flattened rice, peanuts, and mild spices, it provides nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
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Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings2 (1 & 1/2 cups)
CourseBreakfast
CuisineIndian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup / 80 g poha (flattened rice)
  • 1 ½ tbsp oil
  • ¼ tsp mustard seeds
  • 2 green chillies, chopped
  • 6-8 curry leaves
  • 1 tbsp / 10 g peanuts
  • 40 g / 1 no. onion (small), sliced
  • 50 g / 1 no. tomato (small), chopped
  • ¼ tsp turmeric powder
  • ¼ tsp red chilli powder
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ tsp sugar, optional

Method
 

Preparing the poha
  1. Take the poha in a colander or strainer and rinse it gently under running water for 15-20 seconds. Do not rinse for too long, as it can make the poha mushy.
  2. Let it rest for few minutes to soften.
  3. Add salt to taste and mix gently.
Making poha
  1. Heat oil in a pan or kadhai (wok) over medium flame.
  2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Toss in curry leaves, green chilli, and peanuts, sautéing until peanuts turn golden and crunchy (they will crackle when done).
  4. Add the onions and saute until they turn soft and translucent.
  5. Add turmeric powder, chilli powder, and salt. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the rawness of the turmeric is gone.
  6. Mix in tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.
  7. Stir in sugar to balance the flavours and cook until it melts.
  8. Add poha and mix gently without breaking it.
  9. Cook on medium flame for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the poha is evenly coated with spices.
  10. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  11. Turn off the heat and serve hot.

Notes

  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a lovely tang.
  • You can make it more wholesome by adding vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, beans, and capsicum after sautéing the tomatoes. Cook until tender before adding the poha.
  • If adding vegetables, you need to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  • If reheating, sprinkle a little water over the poha and cook on low flame to bring back its softness.