Masala Poha
A classic Maharashtrian breakfast of flattened rice cooked with potatoes, onions, and a simple spice blend. This savory and tangy dish is light, fluffy, and ready in under 25 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Poha (5-10 minutes)
- b.Place the thick poha in a large strainer. Rinse under cold running water for 30-40 seconds, gently tossing with your fingers to wet all the flakes.
- c.Ensure all water is drained completely. Let the poha rest in the strainer for 5-10 minutes. It will absorb the residual moisture and become soft and fluffy. Do not soak it in water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Tempering (Tadka) (3 minutes)
- b.Heat oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter.
- c.Once they pop, add the cumin seeds and raw peanuts. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the peanuts are golden and crunchy.
- d.Add the hing, curry leaves, and slit green chilies. Sauté for 30 seconds until the curry leaves are crisp and aromatic.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Vegetables (6-7 minutes)
- b.Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- c.Add the diced potatoes and a pinch of salt. Mix well, cover the pan, and cook on low-medium heat for 5-6 minutes.
- d.Stir occasionally. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender. If they stick, sprinkle a tablespoon of water.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Steam (3-4 minutes)
- b.Add the turmeric powder and mix for 30 seconds.
- c.Add the softened poha, salt, and sugar to the pan.
- d.Gently toss everything together with a light hand until the poha is evenly coated with the spices and turns a uniform yellow color. Avoid mashing the poha.
- e.Cover the pan and let it steam on low heat for 2-3 minutes. This allows the poha to absorb all the flavors.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve (1 minute)
- b.Turn off the heat. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the poha and add the chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Fluff the poha gently with a fork. Garnish with sev and grated coconut if desired.
- d.Serve immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use thick poha (jada poha). Thin poha will disintegrate and become mushy after rinsing.
- 2The key to fluffy poha is a quick rinse, not a long soak. The resting time allows it to soften perfectly.
- 3Cut potatoes into small, even 1/4-inch cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly with the onions.
- 4Add lemon juice only after turning off the heat to preserve its fresh flavor and vitamin C.
- 5If your poha seems too dry after cooking, sprinkle a tablespoon of water, cover, and steam for another minute to add moisture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Kanda Poha
For the classic onion-based version, simply omit the potatoes. This is a quicker variation popular in Maharashtra.
Vegetable PohaVegetable Poha
Add 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables like green peas, finely chopped carrots, and bell peppers along with the potatoes for a more nutritious and colorful dish.
Indori PohaIndori Poha
Add 1 tsp of fennel seeds (saunf) to the tempering and increase the sugar to 1.5 tsp for a distinct sweet and savory flavor. Garnish generously with sev and pomegranate arils.
Peanut FreePeanut-Free
For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts. You can add a tablespoon of roasted chana dal to the tempering for a similar crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Energy
Poha is rich in healthy carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy to kickstart your day without causing a sudden spike in blood sugar levels.
Easily Digestible
As a light and wholesome food, poha is gentle on the digestive system, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or a light snack that won't feel heavy.
Rich in Iron
The traditional process of making flattened rice involves passing it through iron rollers, which fortifies it with iron. This can help in preventing iron deficiency.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Made from flattened rice, poha is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Masala Poha is considered a healthy breakfast choice. It's light on the stomach, provides carbohydrates for sustained energy, and is low in fat. The addition of vegetables adds fiber and essential nutrients. It is also naturally gluten-free.