Kanda Poha is a traditional Indian breakfast dish that originates from the state of Maharashtra. It is a nutritious, versatile, quick, and easy dish made from flattened rice (poha) and sautéed onions (Kanda).
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Indian, North Indian
Servings: 2people
Calories: 500kcal
Author: Famidha Ashraf
Ingredients
2cupsthick poha
2cupswater
2tablespooncoconut oil
4tablespoonpeanuts(see notes)
1teaspoonmustard seeds
1sprigcurry leaves
1medium onion
2-3green chillies
½teaspoonturmeric powder
salt to taste
Juice of half a lime
2tablespoonchopped coriander leaves
4tablespoongrated coconut
Instructions
Prepare the Poha:
Place the measured-out poha (rice flakes) in a colander with a bowl underneath.
2 cups thick poha
Use a pourable container to measure the drinking water.
2 cups water
Pour the water carefully over the poha, ensuring the entire surface area is wet. Avoid stirring or flipping the poha to prevent sogginess or dryness.
Set it aside for 15 to 20 minutes, optionally covered for safety.
Drain and Soften the Poha:
Allow excess water to drain off during the soaking time. The poha will soften as it absorbs the water.
Prepare the Seasoning:
Heat coconut oil in a pan or kadhai over low to medium heat.
2 tablespoon coconut oil
Add raw peanuts (with skin) and fry by sauteing until they pop and crack, being careful not to burn them.
4 tablespoon peanuts
Move the fried peanuts to one side of the pan and add mustard seeds. Wait for the mustard seeds to crackle.
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Flavor the Dish:
Add curry leaves to the pan, whole, torn, or finely chopped.
1 sprig curry leaves
Introduce chopped green chillies and diced red onions. Saute briefly until their aroma is released.
1 medium onion, 2-3 green chillies
Cook the onions until they become translucent and slightly golden brown.
Sprinkle turmeric powder and salt into the pan, ensuring even coating of the spices on the onions.
½ teaspoon turmeric powder, salt to taste
Combine and Cook:
Add the soaked and drained rice flakes (poha) to the pan.
Gently mix everything, ensuring the poha is evenly coated with the onion and spice mixture. Mix until the mixture turns yellow.
Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
Final Touches:
Turn off the heat and garnish with grated coconut and freshly chopped coriander leaves.
For a tangy taste, squeeze some lemon juice over the poha just before serving (recommended). If using cast iron cookware, serve immediately after adding lime juice.
Juice of half a lime
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Kanda Poha hot, garnished with additional coriander leaves. Provide lemon wedges on the side for extra tanginess.
Video
Notes
Peanuts: For this recipe traditionally we use raw dried peanuts with skin. If you cannot source, then you can use dry-roasted or salted peanuts but remember to adjust the overall salt.