As Chef Rajnish Saharan, I'm delighted to share with you the quintessential Pune-style poha recipe, a beloved breakfast dish from Maharashtra, India. This wholesome and nutritious recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I'm excited to guide you through its preparation. Traditional poha recipes often use refined rice flakes, which are then deep-fried or cooked with excessive oil. However, my version optimizes these elements by using whole, brown rice flakes and minimal oil, making it a healthier and more flavorful option. In this recipe, we'll transform the traditional Pune-style poha into a nutrient-dense meal that's perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Rinse the brown rice flakes in a fine mesh sieve under cold running water for about 2 minutes. Drain completely and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the ghee melts or the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Add cumin seeds to the pan and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly browned.
Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they are soft and mushy.
Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala powder, and rock salt to the pan. Mix well to combine.
Add the rinsed and drained brown rice flakes to the pan. Mix gently to combine with the spice mixture.
Cook the poha for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is lightly toasted and fragrant.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil to the pan and mix well to combine.
Garnish the poha with chopped fresh coriander leaves and grated fresh coconut (if using).
Serve the Pune-style poha hot, straight from the pan, with a dollop of fresh yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts if desired.