Poha is Flattened rice is a preparation of rice made from raw, toasted, or parboiled rice grains pounded into flat flakes. It is traditional to many rice-cultivating cultures in Southeast Asia and South Asia. It is also known as rice flakes, beaten rice, pounded rice, pressed rice or chipped rice.
Poha can be prepared with herbs and vegetables. Poha is the healthiest breakfast that I can imagine.
by unusual_poetry27
2 Comments
To make a simple poha (spiced flattened rice), you will need to rinse the poha, prepare a tempering of spices and vegetables, then combine everything and steam briefly.
Ingredients
1.5 cups thick poha (flattened rice)
2 tbsp oil
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 medium potato, peeled and finely diced (optional)
1/4 cup peanuts
8-10 curry leaves
1-2 green chilies, slit or chopped
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, for balance)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Poha: Place the poha in a colander or strainer and rinse it under running cold water until the water runs clear and the flakes have softened (they should break easily when pressed). Drain all excess water and set aside. Sprinkle turmeric powder, salt, and sugar over the rinsed poha and mix gently.
Roast Peanuts: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the peanuts and fry until they are golden brown and crunchy. Remove them and set aside on a plate.
Temper Spices: In the remaining oil, add mustard seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add the cumin seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until the spluttering stops.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. If using, add the diced potatoes and mix well. Cover the pan with a lid and cook on a low heat until the potatoes are tender (about 4-5 minutes). You can sprinkle a little water if needed to help them cook without sticking.
Combine and Cook: Add the prepared poha to the pan with the vegetables and mix everything gently until the poha is evenly coated in the turmeric.
Steam: Cover the pan with a lid and cook on a very low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the poha to heat through and steam.
Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Stir in the roasted peanuts and fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Serve hot, optionally topped with sev (fried noodles snack) or grated coconut.
Sounds delicious. I like rava upma.