If you’re looking for a vibrant, homey Indian breakfast that’s as easy as it is comforting, the Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) is a treasure. Each golden, lemony spoonful bursts with gentle spice, crunch from peanuts, soft potatoes, and the delicate fragrance of curry leaves. This quick-to-make dish is beloved across India, perfect for busy mornings or lazy brunches. Once you try Poha, you’ll understand why it’s a staple: hearty, nutritious, endlessly customizable, and brimming with flavors that wake up your palate and bring warmth to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) comes together with ingredients you likely already have on hand, each bringing something crucial to the table—be it crunch, fragrance, color, or that joyous citrusy zing. It’s the balance of these simple staples that make Poha so memorable!
- Poha (flattened rice), 1 1/2 cups: Go for thick poha for the perfect fluffy yet substantial texture.
- Oil, 1 tablespoon: Use any neutral oil you have—just enough to gently fry the aromatics.
- Mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon: These tiny seeds add a signature crackly pop and subtle pungency.
- Cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon: Earthy and slightly nutty, cumin seeds bring depth to the base flavors.
- Curry leaves, 8–10: They infuse the dish with unmistakable South Asian aroma and a hint of citrus.
- Onion, 1 small, finely chopped: Adds both sweetness and body to the sautéed base.
- Green chili, 1, chopped (optional): Dial up the heat if you love a kick, or skip for milder flavor.
- Turmeric powder, 1/4 teaspoon: For that beautiful golden color and gentle earthiness.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for drawing out all the nuanced flavors in the dish.
- Potato, 1 small, peeled & diced (optional): Adds heartiness and a creamy texture contrast.
- Roasted peanuts, 2 tablespoons: Their crunch and nutty flavor offer an addictive element to every bite.
- Lemon juice, from 1/2 lemon: Squeezed at the end, it lifts the whole dish with bright acidity.
- Fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped: Sprinkled on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
How to Make Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice)
Step 1: Prep and Fluff the Poha
Begin by placing the poha in a colander and rinsing it thoroughly under running water. Your goal is to wash away any extra starch while softening the flakes. Don’t soak; just rinse well and let it drain. Once the poha is just tender, fluff it with a fork and set aside—this simple step ensures maximum fluffiness in the final result.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the mustard seeds. Listen for their delightful popping (this is when your kitchen starts smelling amazing)! Immediately add cumin seeds and curry leaves, sautéing them for just a few seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and green chili to your pan. Let them sweat for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and sweet. If you love a mellow heat, don’t skip the chili, but it’s just as tasty without.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes (If Using)
If you’re adding potatoes, now’s the time! Stir in the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and cooked through. This step adds some heartiness, but poha is delicious both with and without.
Step 5: Add Turmeric, Salt, and Poha
Sprinkle in the turmeric and salt, mixing gently so everything is coated in that beautiful golden glow. Then add your drained, fluffed poha along with the roasted peanuts. Mix everything gently so as not to break the delicate rice flakes. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until heated through and everything’s mingling together happily.
Step 6: Lemon & Cilantro Finish
Turn off the heat. While the poha’s still hot, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and give it a final, gentle toss. A generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro later, you’re ready for breakfast perfection. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice)
Garnishes
Top your Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) with extra chopped cilantro, a wedge of lemon, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a scattering of fresh-grated coconut. Some folks also like a handful of crunchy sev (fried chickpea noodles) on top for extra texture. The garnishes make each bowl as Instagrammable as it is irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of chai or a bowl of creamy yogurt for a complete breakfast experience. You can also serve it alongside ripe tomato slices or cucumber salad for a refreshing bite. In Maharashtra, it’s traditional to enjoy poha with a cup of strong cutting chai—pure comfort!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving poha in lettuce cups for a modern appetizer, or pack it into a lunchbox layered with extra veggies for extra nutrition and color. You can also form the poha into small patties, pan-searing them to crisp up for an inventive brunch snack—your guests won’t stop raving!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice), let it cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps fresh for up to 2 days, retaining its signature flavors without getting soggy.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze poha if needed. Spread it in a thin layer on a tray to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Label and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, simply sprinkle a bit of water over the poha and warm it in a covered pan over low heat, stirring gently. Alternatively, you can microwave it, again with a splash of water to restore moisture. Refresh with a dash of lemon juice and fresh cilantro before serving for that burst of brightness.
FAQs
Can I make Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) without potatoes?
Absolutely! Potatoes add extra heartiness, but poha is just as traditional and delicious without them. You can substitute green peas or skip entirely for a lighter version.
Which type Breakfast
Thick poha is ideal because it fluffs up beautifully without turning mushy. Thin poha tends to fall apart, so stick with thick flakes for perfect texture every time.
How can I make Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) spicier?
Add more green chilies or even a pinch of red chili powder. You can also toss in finely chopped jalapeños or serve with spicy pickle on the side for a bigger flavor punch.
Is this dish gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! The Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) is naturally gluten-free and vegan as long as you use plant-based oil. It’s perfect for various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Can I customize the vegetables in poha?
Definitely—this recipe is super flexible. Try adding grated carrots, bell peppers, green peas, or even baby spinach for a boost of nutrients and color. Just sauté them along with the onions for best results.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to try this Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) in your own kitchen, whether for a quick breakfast or a cozy brunch with friends. Once you taste that perfect balance of fluffiness, spice, and citrus, you’ll want to come back to this dish again and again. Serve it up, savor the flavors, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to breakfast favorite!
Print
Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Learn how to make a delicious Poha Recipe (Spiced Flattened Rice) for a flavorful Indian breakfast. This vegan and gluten-free dish is quick to prepare and packed with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups poha (flattened rice)
Tempering:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 8–10 curry leaves
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 small potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Rinse the Poha: Rinse the poha in a colander under running water until soft. Drain and fluff gently with a fork.
- Temper and Saute: Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. Saute onion, green chili, and spices until soft.
- Cook: Add potatoes, if using, followed by turmeric, salt, poha, and peanuts. Stir gently, cook until heated through.
- Finish: Turn off heat, squeeze lemon juice, garnish with cilantro. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use thick poha for best texture.
- You can add green peas or grated coconut for variation.
- Serve with tea or yogurt for a classic Indian breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
