Fodnichi Poli
A simple Maharashtrian way to turn leftover chapatis into a warm, comforting snack. Torn poli is tossed in a fragrant tempering with onion, green chili, and a touch of jaggery for sweet, savory balance.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Tear the poli and prep the aromatics.
1.Tear the roti into small bite-size pieces.2.Chop the onion finely.3.Chop the green chili and coriander leaves.4.Grate the fresh coconut and jaggery if needed. - temper · ~2 min
Make the tempering.
1.Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat.2.Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.3.Add cumin seeds and curry leaves.4.Add green chili and stir for a few seconds. - saute · ~5 min
Cook the onion.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the turmeric powder and salt.
- mix · ~2 min
Add the poli pieces and season.
Add the torn roti pieces and jaggery. Sprinkle in the water and toss well so the pieces soften slightly and get coated with the tempering.
- saute · ~3 min
Cook until heated through.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on low heat, stirring gently, until the poli is warm, soft in spots, and lightly toasted at the edges.
- garnish · ~1 min
Finish with coconut, coriander, and lemon juice.
- serve
Serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a wide pan so the torn poli heats evenly and the edges toast instead of steaming.
- 2Add the 2 tablespoons water by sprinkling, not pouring, so the roti softens without turning soggy.
- 3Sauté the onion only until lightly golden; too much browning can overpower the delicate sweet-savory balance.
- 4If your chapatis are very dry, cover the pan for 30 seconds after adding water, then uncover to finish tossing.
- 5Taste before adding extra salt because leftover roti may already be seasoned from the original dough.
- 6Add lemon juice only after switching off the heat to keep the finish bright and fresh.
- 7Serve immediately after garnishing, since fresh coconut and coriander taste best before the dish sits too long.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-oil
Reduce the oil slightly and use a nonstick pan; this keeps the dish lighter while still allowing the tempering to coat the poli.
veganVegan
The base recipe is already vegan if your chapatis were made without ghee or milk, making it a handy plant-based leftover meal.
jainJain
Skip onion and use extra curry leaves, green chili, and a little more coconut for a Jain-style version with similar texture and aroma.
peanutPeanut
Add roasted crushed peanuts with the roti pieces for a more filling snack and a nutty crunch that suits Maharashtrian flavors.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Whole Wheat Comfort Food
Using leftover chapati makes this dish based on whole wheat flatbread, which is generally more satisfying than refined flour snacks.
Includes Aromatic Spices
Mustard, cumin, curry leaves, chili, and turmeric add flavor depth without needing heavy sauces or rich gravies.
Fresh Herb and Coconut Finish
Coriander, lemon juice, and fresh coconut add freshness, texture, and natural flavor to an otherwise simple leftover dish.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but day-old chapatis work better because they hold their shape when tossed. Fresh ones can turn softer and slightly sticky.



