Poha

Poha is a delicious savory dish that makes an excellent starter/appetizer. Just serve it on a large platter for guests to help themselves.

Poha is rice which is dehusked, beaten and then flattened into flat light dry flakes. The flakes swell when added to liquid, whether hot or cold, as they absorb water, milk or any other liquids. The thicknesses of the flakes vary. Poha is served in many forms, as a savory and sweet dish. It can also be fried and had as a snack, combined with nuts and spices.

I first tasted Poha in Chennai, India, where it was served as a breakfast dish. I really liked it. It is spicy, (chewy like rice), with a hint of ginger, cumin and mustard flavors, contrasting well with the crunch of cashew nuts and peanuts.

I soon figured out the ingredients used in this dish and was able to create my version of Poha. Based on the number of compliments I receive for this dish, the recipe is a success. Here is the recipe.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups Poha (rice flakes)
  • 3 cups of water
  • 1 cup finely cubed onion
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • ½ cup canola oil
  • 4 finely sliced green chilies & 2 dry red chilies. (Adjust amount to your preference of spiciness)
  • 1 tsp. crushed ginger
  • 1 tblsp. mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp. turmeric powder
  • 1 cup cashew nuts
  • ½ cup peanuts
  • a few sprigs of cilantro/dhania
  • a few sprigs of curry leaves,(optional)
  • 1½ tsp. salt
  • 1 ½ tsp. cumin powder

Method

  • Soak Poha in 3 cups water just until it is submerged. Then, immediately drain in colander and set aside
  • Heat oil, add mustard seeds. Put lid on pot as the mustard seeds pop
  • In a few seconds, sauté onions, ginger, curry leaves & chilies for about a minute
  • Add turmeric & stir
  • Add Poha and mix with other ingredients until it is well blended.
  • Add salt. Cook for 3-5 minutes on a low temperature
  • Add cashew nuts & peanuts
  • The Poha will have rich shiny yellow color and the flakes will be soft when it is done.
  • Sprinkle with chopped coriander leaves/cilantro/dhania
  • Serve and Enjoy
Delicious Cooked Poha

Poha ready to be Served


Poha in pan

Just cooked Poha in Pan


cut up onions

Some ingredients for Poha


Poha flakes

Poha flakes & soaked & Strained Poha, ready to be cooked




If you have any questions or would like to add a recipe of your own, email me, Nirmala, at email address
I will be happy to help in any way I can. The site will be regularly updated with tasty recipes and hints and tips. You can also reach me at Contact

Navigate these convenient links for easy access to the next destination.