Poha

Maharashtra is a fertile land where most of the fruits and vegetables are grown in abundance. Most people are vegetarians and I will introduce mainly the vegetarian dishes which I had the privilege of learning from a Maharashtrian cook Ranjana. As I stayed only for a few days she could only show me three dishes.

Poha is something which Maharashtrians eat for breakfast but on the streets of Mumbai I have often seen it being sold as a snack.

Ingredients:

• Chiwada (Beaten rice)

  

  Poha

• ½ tsf Haldi
• 1 tsf Salt
• 2 tbsf Oil
• ½ tsf Mustard seeds
• ½ tsf Cumin seeds
• 1 small Onion chopped
• 2 Green Chillis chopped at a slight angle
• Few Curry leaves
• 2 tbsf Peanuts
• small bunch of Coriander leaves finely chopped
• Grated Coconut (optional)

Method:

1. Soak the Chiwada for 10 mins and drain the water.
2. Add turmeric powder and salt to the chiwada and leave it aside.
3. In a wok heat the oil and add mustard and cumin seeds, heat on high heat till these start to sizzle.
4. Add curry leaves, green chillis and fry for a few minutes.
5. Add Onion and fry till it start to brown.
6. Add soaked chiwada and mix well and cook for approximately 15 minutes
7. Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves and grated coconut (optional).

We were served hot for breakfast.