Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast or snack option? Look no further than poha! This thin, flat rice flake dish is a staple in Indian cuisine and can be prepared in countless ways. From sweet treats to savory snacks, poha is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of ingredients to suit any taste.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering poha recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option or a tasty snack to munch on, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations like masala poha and kanda poha to more unique options like poha idli and poha pancakes, we’ll dive into the world of poha recipes and discover all the delicious possibilities.
Masala Poha with Peanuts and Curry Leaves
A flavorful twist on traditional poha, this recipe combines the crunch of peanuts with the earthy flavor of curry leaves. Perfect as a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups thin flat rice flakes (poha)
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh curry leaves, for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add grated ginger, cumin, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add poha flakes and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until poha is lightly toasted.
5. Stir in peanuts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh curry leaves and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kanda Poha with Onions and Mustard Seeds
A popular Maharashtrian snack, Kanda Poha is a crispy and flavorful delight made with flattened rice flakes (poha), onions, mustard seeds, and spices. This recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare this addictive snack at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha flakes in water, then soak them for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Add the mustard seeds and turmeric powder to the pan. Sauté for another minute.
4. Add the poha flakes to the pan, stirring well to combine with the onion-mustard mixture.
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the poha is crispy and golden brown.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indori Poha with Sev and Pomegranate
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast that combines the crunch of poha, the fun of sev, and the sweetness of pomegranate. This recipe is an easy twist on traditional poha that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup thin poha flakes
– 1/4 cup yellow moong dal sev (fried gram flour noodles)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pomegranate seeds
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha flakes and soak them in water for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and easy to separate.
2. Drain the water and flatten the poha into a plate-like shape.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
4. Add the yellow moong dal sev and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Spread the toasted sev evenly over the poha.
6. Sprinkle chopped pomegranate seeds over the top of the poha.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Poha Chivda with Nuts and Raisins
Poha chivda is a popular Indian snack that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. This variation adds the crunch of nuts and sweetness of raisins for a delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 1/2 cup peanuts
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha and soak it in water for about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the peanuts and cook until lightly browned, stirring frequently.
3. Add the raisins to the pan and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the poha to the pan and stir well to combine with the nuts and raisins.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped onion, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Cutlets with Spicy Green Chutney
Poha cutlets are a popular street food in India, and when paired with a tangy and spicy green chutney, they become a match made in heaven. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next party.
Ingredients:
For the Poha Cutlets:
– 2 cups poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 1/4 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
For the Spicy Green Chutney:
– 1 cup cilantro leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Mix poha with besan, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add vegetable oil, onion, green chili, and cumin seeds to the mixture. Mix well.
4. Shape into small cutlets.
5. Fry the cutlets until golden brown.
6. For the chutney, blend cilantro leaves, green chilies, onion, lemon juice, and salt together.
7. Serve the Poha Cutlets with Spicy Green Chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Upma with Vegetables and Coconut
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious Poha Upma, a popular Indian dish made with puffed rice flakes, vegetables, and coconut. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup puffed rice flakes (poha)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon grated coconut
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Optional: chili flakes or lemon juice for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add diced tomato, mixed vegetables, salt, and 1 cup water. Stir well.
5. Add puffed rice flakes (poha) to the mixture and stir gently.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the poha is fully cooked.
7. Garnish with grated coconut and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Poha with Jaggery and Cardamom
Sweet Poha with Jaggery and Cardamom Recipe
A traditional Indian dessert, Sweet Poha is a simple yet delightful treat that combines the sweetness of poha (flattened rice) with the warmth of jaggery and cardamom. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup poha
• 1/2 cup jaggery powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha and soak it in water for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes soft and pliable.
2. Drain the water and mix the poha with jaggery powder, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the poha mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the poha is well coated with the jaggery-cardamom mixture and has a slightly caramelized flavor.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poha Idli with Fermented Rice Flakes
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional idlis with the nutty flavor and texture of fermented rice flakes, also known as poha. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this dish is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (fermented rice flakes)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha in a fine-mesh sieve until it’s well-drained.
2. In a large bowl, combine poha, lukewarm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Add grated coconut to the mixture and mix well.
4. Pour the batter into idli molds or small cups lined with parchment paper.
5. Steam the poha idlis over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Dosa with Crispy Edges
A popular South Indian snack, Poha Dosa is a flavorful and crispy rice flour crepe made with puffed rice flakes. This recipe adds an extra crunch to the traditional dosa by cooking it on a non-stick pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup puffed rice flakes (poha)
– 1/2 cup rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine poha, rice flour, salt, and baking soda.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Brush the pan with ghee or oil.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and crisp up.
7. Flip and cook the other side for another minute.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Poha Pancakes with Honey and Fruits
Start your day with a sweet and healthy twist on traditional pancakes, using the humble poha (flattened rice flakes) as the base. These Poha Pancakes with Honey and Fruits are a delightful breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)
– Fresh fruits of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, soak the poha in milk for about 30 minutes or until it reaches the desired consistency.
2. Drain the excess milk and mash the soaked poha with a fork to form a thick paste.
3. Add honey, mashed banana, and chopped walnuts (if using) to the poha mixture. Mix well.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Drop small portions of the poha mixture onto the pan and spread into desired pancake shape.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm with your choice of fresh fruits and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Poha Kheer with Milk and Saffron
Poha kheer is a popular Indian dessert made with flattened rice flakes, milk, and spices. This recipe adds the luxurious touch of saffron for an exotic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha flakes and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the soaked poha, milk, saffron mixture, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Poha Bhel with Tamarind Chutney
Poha Bhel is a popular Indian street food snack that combines crispy puffed rice flakes (poha) with flavorful spices, herbs, and tangy tamarind chutney. This simple recipe brings the authentic flavors of India to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (puffed rice flakes)
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped onions
– 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Tamarind chutney (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha with water and soak it in water for 3-5 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess water.
2. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped cilantro, onions, and tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
4. Add the poha to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Season with salt and lemon juice. Serve immediately with tamarind chutney.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poha Dhokla with Mustard and Sesame
This recipe is a creative take on the traditional Poha Dhokla, adding a tangy twist with mustard and sesame. The crunchy poha (flattened rice flakes) is balanced by the spicy kick of mustard and the nutty flavor of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon Eno fruit salt
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/8 teaspoon red chili powder
– 2 tablespoons mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, Eno fruit salt, salt, cumin, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
3. Add the soaked poha to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the poha mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the dhokla and press gently with a spatula.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Sandwich with Cheese and Herbs
Transform the humble poha into a delicious sandwich filled with melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of crunch. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups poha
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together poha, cheese, parsley, and cilantro.
3. Butter the pan and place a quarter cup of the poha mixture onto it.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the poha is lightly toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Poha Paratha with Ghee and Yogurt
Poha parathas are a popular North Indian flatbread made with flattened rice flakes, also known as poha. This recipe adds a delightful twist by serving the parathas with melted ghee (clarified butter) and a dollop of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups poha
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee, melted
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Yogurt, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together poha, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water and knead the mixture into a soft dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired paratha size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Cook the parathas on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re lightly browned and crispy.
6. Brush with melted ghee and serve hot with a dollop of yogurt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Ladoo with Dates and Nuts
A classic Indian sweet treat gets a delicious twist with the addition of dates and nuts, making it perfect for special occasions or as a snack anytime.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups poha flakes
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped dates (fresh or dried)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or cashews)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Dry roast the poha flakes in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and fragrant.
2. Mix in the grated coconut, chopped dates, and nuts.
3. Add the ghee or oil and salt, mixing well to combine.
4. Shape into small balls (ladoo) and press gently to form a compact shape.
5. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Poha Salad with Cucumber and Lemon
A refreshing twist on traditional Poha recipes, this salad combines the crunchy goodness of flattened rice flakes with the cooling zest of cucumber and lemon. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Poha (flat rice flakes)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Poha in a fine mesh sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed Poha, diced cucumber, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Poha Tikki with Mint Chutney
Experience the perfect blend of crispy and soft with these flavorful Poha Tikki, served with a cool and tangy Mint Chutney. This recipe is an ideal snack for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
For Poha Tikki:
– 2 cups puffed rice (poha)
– 1/4 cup cooked mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
For Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix together poha, mashed potatoes, cilantro, onion, and ginger paste. Divide into small portions.
2. Shape each portion into a patty. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook tikki until golden brown.
3. Blend mint leaves, green chilies, yogurt, and lemon juice to make the chutney. Season with salt.
4. Serve Poha Tikki warm or at room temperature with Mint Chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
This Poha Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers is a flavorful and healthy vegetarian dish that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. Thinly sliced bell peppers add a pop of color and sweetness to the savory poha, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha in a fine mesh strainer and soak it in water for about 5 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Drain the poha and add it to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt, cumin powder (if using), and chili powder (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poha Smoothie with Banana and Yogurt
A refreshing twist on traditional smoothies, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of poha (flattened rice) with the creamy texture of yogurt and the sweetness of banana.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a blender, combine the poha, banana, and yogurt.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes (blending time)
Enjoy your Poha Smoothie with Banana and Yogurt!
Summary
Discover the versatility of poha, a popular Indian breakfast dish, with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion. From sweet treats like Poha Kheer and Poha Ladoo to savory delights like Masala Poha and Poha Dosa, there’s something for everyone. Try innovative creations like Poha Cutlets or Poha Pancakes, or stick to classic dishes like Poha Upma and Poha Idli. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these poha recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.