Lemon Poha
A light and tangy South Indian breakfast made with flattened rice, tempered spices, crunchy peanuts, and a fresh squeeze of lemon. A quick and wholesome meal ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPDo not soak the poha, as it will become soggy. A quick rinse is all that's needed for it to absorb enough moisture. - 2
Step 2
- a.Heat oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat.
- b.Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- c.Add chana dal, urad dal, and peanuts. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the dals turn golden and the peanuts are crisp.
- d.Add the curry leaves and slit green chilies. Sauté for another 30 seconds.
- 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
TIPUse a light hand when mixing to avoid mashing the delicate poha flakes. - 5
Step 5
- 6
Step 6
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use thick poha for the best texture; thin poha can become mushy quickly.
- 2Rinse poha just before you start the tempering to ensure it's perfectly soft.
- 3For extra crunch, you can roast the peanuts separately and add them at the end.
- 4Adjust the amount of lemon juice and green chilies to suit your taste preference.
- 5You can add a handful of fresh or frozen peas along with the onions for extra nutrition and color.
Adapt it for your goals.
Jain
Omit the onion completely. You can add a pinch more asafoetida to enhance the flavor.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/2 cup of sprouted moong beans or boiled chickpeas along with the onions for a protein boost.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Skip the green chilies and reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly. You can add finely grated carrots for sweetness and color.
veganVegan
This recipe is already vegan. Just ensure the sugar used is not processed with bone char if you are strict.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Carbohydrates
Poha is rich in healthy carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy to keep you active throughout the morning.
Easy to Digest
Being a light food, poha is very easy on the digestive system, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or a light snack.
Rich in Iron
Flattened rice is a good source of iron. The addition of lemon juice helps in the absorption of this iron, preventing anemia.
Low in Gluten
Poha is naturally low in gluten, making it a suitable option for those with mild gluten sensitivities.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Lemon Poha is a healthy breakfast option. It's light on the stomach, rich in carbohydrates for energy, and low in fat. The addition of peanuts provides some protein and healthy fats.