Poha (Flattens Rice)
This dish is a favorite for breakfast or as a light snack in different parts of India. Being raised in Bihar, my mother was very fond of Chudwey. She would often prepare this dish as a special snack for guests to be served with tea. I have grown up loving this recipe and thought I would share it with all of you. This is a quick and easy recipe to make and very delicious.
Servings 4 people
Ingredients
- 2 cups thick poha, poha is available in different thickness
- 1 cup green peas, I am using frozen
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds rai
- 3 cardamoms ilachai
- 1/2 tsp turmeric haldi
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder
- 1 green Chile finely chopped
- 1 tsp ginger finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cilantro finely chopped hara dhania1
- 2 lemon slice for garnishing
- 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes for garnishing
Instructions
- Gently wash poha in a colander and let it sit/drain for approx. 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle turmeric, chili powder and salt and toss with a fork.
- Wash and drain green peas and set aside.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium high heat. When oil is moderately hot add mustard seeds and wait till seeds crack. Add cardamom, ginger and green chili and stir for a few seconds. Then add green peas and cook until they are tender.
- Add poha and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, mixing gently. (If the poha looks too dry, add a few tablespoons of water and continue cooking).
- Remove from heat and add lemon juice, sugar and cilantro. Mix and cover for few minutes.
Notes
Serve hot with a side of Hari Cilantro Chutney.
Tips: Poha comes in different thickness sizes, but you must use the “thick” poha for this recipe, or else it will become too mushy.
Varying brands of Poha may absorb water differently. Therefore use your judgment while cooking, to add a few tablespoons of water, if it feels too dry.
I am using frozen baby green peas, but you can use fresh or frozen of any style green peas. Just make sure that they are fully cooked before you add the poha.