Delightful Marathi dish : Poha - How to prepare

 

Poha is an attractive  Konkani or Marathi dish which is very popular all over India 

To make Poha, a popular Indian breakfast dish, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of flattened rice (poha)

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

- 1/4 cup of raw peanuts

- 1/4 cup of fresh peas (optional)

- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder

- Salt to taste

- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (preferably mustard oil)

- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds

- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

- Curry leaves (optional)

- Freshly chopped coriander leaves for garnish

- Lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the poha under running water for a few seconds until it becomes soft. Be gentle to avoid breaking the flakes. Drain well and set aside.

2. Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add cumin seeds and asafoetida (hing).

3. Add the peanuts and fry them until they become golden brown. If using fresh peas, add them now and cook for a few minutes until they become tender.

4. Add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.

5. Add turmeric powder and curry leaves (if using). Mix well.

6. Add the drained poha to the pan. Gently mix everything together so that the poha gets coated with the turmeric and onion mixture. Be careful not to break the poha flakes.

7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.

8. Season with salt and mix again.

9. Cover the pan with a lid and let it steam for 2-3 minutes on low heat. This helps to soften the poha further.

10. Turn off the heat. Squeeze some lemon juice over the poha for a tangy flavor (if desired). Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

11. Serve hot, garnished with extra coriander leaves and with a side of chutney or yogurt if you like.

Enjoy your homemade poha!