Delicious and Easy Poha Recipe | Traditional Indian Breakfast

Delicious and Easy Poha Recipe | Traditional Indian Breakfast

Discover how to make soft and flavorful poha with this easy step-by-step recipe. A healthy and quick Indian breakfast made with flattened rice, spices, and veggies.

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Poha Recipe: A Light and Healthy Indian Breakfast

Poha, also known as flattened rice or beaten rice, is a popular and easy-to-make Indian breakfast dish. Especially beloved in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, this light, fluffy meal is made by steaming soaked rice flakes and mixing them with mustard seeds, curry leaves, onions, green chilies, turmeric, and peanuts. It’s nutritious, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome morning meal or a light evening snack, poha is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the full recipe, ingredients, and tips to make this dish perfectly every time.

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Ingredients:

Serves: 2-3 people | Preparation time: 10 mins | Cooking time: 10 mins

• 1½ cups thick poha (flattened rice)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• ¼ cup peanuts
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• 2 tbsp oil
• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
• 1 small lemon (for juice)
• ½ cup boiled potatoes (optional)
• Grated coconut or sev (optional garnish)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Rinse the Poha

Place the poha in a strainer or colander and rinse it under running water for about 30 seconds. Gently mix it with your fingers while rinsing so the flakes soften evenly. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the moisture.

Tip: Do not over-soak or it will become mushy. The poha should be soft but hold its shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Tempering

Heat oil in a pan on medium flame. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add peanuts and sauté them until they turn golden and crunchy.

Step 3: Add Onions and Chilies

Add chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Now add turmeric powder and mix well. You can also add a pinch of sugar at this stage to balance the flavors.

Step 5: Mix the Poha

Add the soaked poha to the pan. Mix gently using a spatula to combine all the ingredients. Cook for 2-3 minutes on low flame. Add salt to taste and squeeze some lemon juice.

Optional: You can also add boiled potatoes or green peas for variation.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a sprinkle of grated coconut or sev for extra crunch and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions:

Poha is best enjoyed hot with a slice of lemon and a cup of masala chai. For a more filling meal, pair it with curd or buttermilk.

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Health Benefits of Poha:

• Low in calories and easy to digest.
• Rich in iron and carbohydrates.
• Light yet filling—great for weight management.
• Gluten-free and suitable for most diets.

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Tips for Perfect Poha Every Time:

• Always use thick poha for best texture.
• Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or capsicum for added nutrition.
• A splash of lemon at the end enhances the flavor.

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Variations of Poha:

• Kanda Poha – Onion-based poha, popular in Maharashtra.
• Batata Poha – Includes boiled potatoes.
• Indori Poha – Famous in Madhya Pradesh, topped with sev and pomegranate.

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Final Thoughts:

Poha is the ultimate comfort food—simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe will quickly become your go-to breakfast or snack option. Try it today and enjoy the traditional taste of Indian mornings in every bite!