Tomato Pea Poha Recipe
Quick, Healthy, and Flavorful Indian Breakfast
Tomato Pea Poha, also known as Tomato Matar Poha in Hindi, is a simple and satisfying North Indian breakfast dish that combines the soft texture of poha (flattened rice) with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and peas. This dish is not only a healthy start to the day but also a burst of flavors from spices, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Perfect for a nutritious and fulfilling morning meal, it’s ideal when paired with a hot cup of masala chai and a bowl of fresh fruits.
Ingredients for Tomato Pea Poha:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Poha (flattened rice) | 2 cups | Rinse thoroughly and drain. |
| Green peas | 1/2 cup | Soak in warm water for 5 minutes. |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped | |
| Tomatoes | 3, finely chopped | |
| Green chili | 1, finely chopped | Adjust to taste |
| Garlic cloves | 2, crushed | |
| Fennel seeds | 1 tsp | |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp | |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 tsp | |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp | |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp | |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp | |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig | |
| Fresh coriander (cilantro) | 2 tbsp, chopped | For garnishing |
| Oil | 2 tsp | |
| Lemon juice | 2 tsp | |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Tomato Pea Poha:
-
Prepare the Poha:
- Start by rinsing the poha (flattened rice) thoroughly. Wash it 2 to 3 times to remove any dust or impurities. Once washed, drain the water completely and set it aside.
-
Cook the Tempering:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a deep pan or wok (kadhai) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them crackle for about 10 seconds.
- Now, add the fennel seeds and crushed garlic to the pan. Cook them until the garlic turns golden brown and aromatic.
- Add the asafoetida (hing) and curry leaves to the pan. Stir well and let the flavors infuse for about 10 seconds.
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion to the pan. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Once the onion is cooked, add the chopped tomatoes and green chili. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften and turn mushy.
-
Add the Spices:
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables and spices. Let this cook for a minute, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
-
Combine with Poha:
- Add the pre-soaked and drained green peas to the pan, followed by the poha. Season with salt to taste and mix everything together carefully, ensuring that the poha is evenly coated with the spices and vegetables.
-
Cook and Steam:
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the poha cook on low heat for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together, and the poha absorbs the moisture and becomes soft and fluffy.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, turn off the heat. Garnish the poha with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve hot with a side of masala chai (spiced tea) and a bowl of fresh fruits for a complete breakfast.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Pea Poha:
- Soaking Poha: Ensure you rinse the poha properly to prevent it from becoming soggy. Drain the water well before using.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder based on your preference for spiciness.
- Add Nuts: For added texture, you can garnish the poha with roasted peanuts or cashews.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Poha tastes great with a cup of spiced tea or a bowl of yogurt for a creamy side.
This Tomato Pea Poha is an easy-to-make, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of vegetables, spices, and poha in a simple one-pot meal. Perfect for breakfast or as a light snack, it’s packed with energy and nutrients to fuel your day. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of this comforting North Indian breakfast with your loved ones!
