Poha: What's Required
To embark on this culinary journey, you'll need a handful of essential ingredients readily available in most Indian kitchens. Firstly, the star of the show:
thick poha, also known as flattened rice. This is the foundation of the dish. Alongside this, you will need finely chopped onions, a vibrant green chili, mustard seeds for a characteristic pop, cumin seeds for flavor depth, turmeric powder, and asafoetida. Fresh curry leaves provide a fragrant essence. Groundnuts offer a delightful crunch, and lastly, salt, sugar, and fresh coriander leaves for garnishing will complete your ingredients.
Preparing the Poha
Begin by gently rinsing the thick poha under cold running water. Be careful not to over-soak, as the poha should retain its shape. Once rinsed, drain the water, and set the poha aside. This process ensures the poha softens without becoming mushy. Next, heat some oil in a pan. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves; stir for a moment to release their fragrance. Now, add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
Adding Flavor & Texture
The next step is to introduce the spice and flavor. Add the turmeric powder and groundnuts to the pan, sautéing for a minute. Then, gently introduce the prepared poha into the pan. Stir it very lightly. Now add salt and sugar according to your taste. Mix all the ingredients gently, ensuring everything is well combined and evenly distributed. Ensure that the poha doesn’t break while mixing. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, gently stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a symphony of taste.
Serving and Garnishing
Once the poha is heated through and the flavors have blended seamlessly, it’s time to serve. Transfer the poha to a serving plate. Garnish generously with fresh coriander leaves, adding a burst of freshness and color. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist, enhancing the flavors. Poha can be served hot or warm, making it a versatile option for breakfast or even a light evening snack. This recipe provides a simple, delicious, and fulfilling breakfast, perfect for any occasion.
