Aloo Poha Recipe – Tangy and Flavorful Indian Breakfast
Aloo Poha, also known as Batata Poha, is a classic Indian breakfast dish that is light, nutritious, and bursting with vibrant flavors. This dish is a combination of flattened rice (Poha), boiled potatoes, and an assortment of spices, along with fresh ingredients like green peas, peanuts, and pomegranate. Aloo Poha is perfect for a fulfilling morning meal, and the addition of tangy lemon and aromatic curry leaves elevates the taste, making it an irresistible option. Whether you’re starting your day or preparing a snack, this easy recipe will surely satisfy your cravings and energize you for the day ahead.
Aloo Poha Recipe – Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened rice) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Potatoes, boiled, peeled & cubed | 1 or 2 medium-sized |
| Green peas, steamed | 1/4 cup |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Curry leaves, finely chopped | 5-6 leaves |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Green chillies, slit lengthwise | 2 |
| Ginger, finely grated | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 tsp |
| Sugar | 2 tsp |
| Lemon, juiced | 1 |
| Peanuts | 1 tbsp |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Pomegranate seeds | 3/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Optional Ingredients:
| Optional Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet corn, steamed | 1/2 cup |
| Green gram, sprouted | 1/2 cup |
Aloo Poha Recipe – Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal (approx.) |
| Protein | 4-5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40 g |
| Fiber | 3-4 g |
| Fat | 7-10 g |
| Sodium | 100-150 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% of daily value |
| Iron | 8-10% of daily value |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 2-3 people
How to Make Aloo Poha – Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the Poha:
Begin by rinsing the Poha under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Gently wash it until the Poha becomes soft and then drain all the water. Ensure that the Poha is well-drained to avoid sogginess. Transfer the Poha to a bowl, then add turmeric powder, salt, sugar, and a pinch of asafoetida. Mix it gently and set it aside. -
Cook the Spices and Aromatics:
In a large pan or skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them crackle for a few seconds. Add the finely chopped onions, curry leaves, green chillies, and grated ginger. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent. -
Add the Potatoes:
Add the boiled, peeled, and cubed potatoes to the pan, stirring them in with the onions and spices. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors of the spices. -
Combine Poha with the Spice Mixture:
Once the potatoes are ready, add the prepared Poha to the pan along with 1 tablespoon of water to help it cook evenly. Stir everything together, ensuring the Poha is well coated with the spices. -
Simmer:
Cover the pan with a lid and let the Poha cook on low heat for about 4-5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend well and the Poha to become heated through. -
Finish with Fresh Ingredients:
After 5 minutes, remove the lid and stir in the lemon juice, steamed green peas, peanuts, fresh coriander leaves, and pomegranate seeds. Give everything a gentle mix. -
Serve:
Once all the ingredients are well incorporated, remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Aloo Poha to serving plates. Serve hot, and optionally, pair it with a warm cup of masala tea for the perfect breakfast experience.
Tips for a Perfect Aloo Poha:
- Texture of Poha: Make sure you rinse the Poha thoroughly and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture. This ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies based on your spice tolerance. You can also add a pinch of red chili powder for an extra kick.
- Toppings: Feel free to add a variety of toppings such as sev (crispy chickpea noodles), fresh grated coconut, or chopped tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Variation: If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value, add steamed sweet corn or sprouted green gram to the Poha for a protein-packed meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Aloo Poha is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it with a side of masala tea, a cup of yogurt, or even a few slices of fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast that will keep you energized all day. You can also pair it with a refreshing green chutney or tamarind chutney to balance the tangy flavors of the dish.
Why You Should Try Aloo Poha
Aloo Poha is not only a traditional breakfast dish but also a comfort food for many. The combination of textures from the soft Poha, crunchy peanuts, and juicy pomegranate, along with the savory spices, makes it a delightful and satisfying meal. This simple yet flavorful dish can be enjoyed on busy mornings, lazy weekends, or as an evening snack.
Moreover, Poha is a good source of iron, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice to fuel your day. Aloo Poha is light on the stomach but packs a punch in terms of taste and nutrition. It is also easily customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it an ideal dish for families and gatherings.
So, whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned foodie, Aloo Poha is a must-try recipe that combines simplicity with bold flavors!
Conclusion
Aloo Poha is a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast that brings the best of Indian cuisine to your table. It is packed with flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it an ideal choice to start your day on a healthy and delicious note. Whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with optional ingredients like sweet corn or sprouted green gram, this recipe will always leave you craving more.
Enjoy this wholesome treat with family and friends, and let Aloo Poha become your go-to breakfast favorite!
