What is Poha?
Poha, also known as flattened rice, is a common breakfast dish enjoyed across India. The dish’s versatility allows for a variety of additions, making it a customizable
meal. Poha’s easy preparation and satisfying taste make it a favorite for busy mornings or relaxed weekend breakfasts. The ease of its preparation makes it a wonderful dish for anyone, regardless of their experience in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
To make Poha, you will need a few key ingredients. Start with the flattened rice, also known as poha. You'll also need onions, potatoes, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and turmeric powder. Coriander leaves add a fresh flavor. You can also include peanuts for added texture and flavor. Other ingredients include oil, salt, and sugar to taste, as well as green chilies for those who enjoy a bit of spice. The quality of each ingredient will affect the overall taste of your dish.
Preparing the Poha
The first step is to rinse the poha under running water. Be careful not to over-rinse, as this can make the poha mushy. A quick rinse, enough to soften the flakes, is ideal. Once rinsed, set the poha aside to allow the water to drain. While the poha drains, heat some oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. After that, add curry leaves, chopped onions, and potatoes. Sauté these ingredients until the onions turn golden brown and the potatoes are soft.
Adding Flavor
Once the onions and potatoes are cooked, it's time to add the spices. Add turmeric powder and mix well. If you are using green chilies, add them at this stage. Now, gently add the softened poha to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the spices coat the poha evenly. Add salt and sugar to your liking. Gently stir to prevent the poha from breaking. If you want a slight tartness, a squeeze of lemon juice can be added at the end. Be gentle while stirring to keep the texture right.
Cooking & Serving
Once the poha is mixed, cover the pan and cook for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. After a short while, take the lid off and check the poha. The poha should be soft and fluffy, not sticky. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving. Serve the Poha hot, often with a side of sev (thin chickpea flour noodles) and a cup of tea. It's a quick and satisfying breakfast.
