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Cultural signature · Maharashtra

Easy Kanda Poha Recipe | Soft, Fluffy & Authentic Maharashtrian Breakfast

“There’s something about a warm bowl of poha that instantly feels like home. It’s one of those simple recipes I turn to when I want something quick, comforting and full of flavour without spending too much time in the kitchen. Soft poha, sweet onions, crunchy peanuts and a little squeeze of lemon—nothing fancy, just the kind of homemade goodness that makes an ordinary morning feel special.”

Prep
10m
Cook
15m
Serves
2 people
Spice
Medium
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Poha

Kanda Poha is one of those simple Maharashtrian breakfasts that feels like home in every bite. Made with flattened rice, onions, peanuts and a few everyday spices, it is light, flavourful and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on a busy morning or a comforting meal with a cup of chai, this easy Kanda Poha recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. The secret is getting the poha soft and fluffy without making it mushy, while balancing the perfect mix of sweet, tangy and savoury flavours.

Expert tips

  • Rinse poha gently: Wash it under running water just until it softens. Don’t soak it for too long.
  • Choose thick poha, It holds its texture better and is less likely to turn mushy.
  • Don’t overcook once you add the poha, cook on low-medium heat for just a few minutes.
  • Add lemon at the end, fresh lemon juice gives poha its signature tangy flavour.
  • Use peanuts for crunch: Roasted peanuts add a lovely contrast to the soft poha.
  • Let it rest: Turn off the heat and keep it covered for 2–3 minutes before serving.
  • For authentic Maharashtrian flavour: A little sugar balances the lemon, onion and spices beautifully.

Instructions

  1. 01

    Rinse the poha

    Place the poha in a strainer and rinse it gently under running water for a few seconds. Let it drain completely and rest for 5–10 minutes. The poha should be soft but not mushy.

    Rinse the poha
  2. 02

    Season the poha

    Add turmeric and a little salt to the drained poha add a little sugar (optional). Mix gently and keep it aside.

  3. 03

    Roast the peanuts

    Heat oil in a kadai or pan. Add the peanuts and roast them until golden and crunchy. Remove them and keep aside.

    Roast the peanuts
  4. 04

    Preparing the tempering

    In the same pan, add mustard and cumin seeds. Once they start to crackle, add curry leaves and green chilli.

  5. 05

    Cook the onions

    Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent.

    Cook the onions
  6. 06

    Add the poha

    Add the seasoned poha to the pan along with the roasted peanuts. Mix everything gently so the poha stays fluffy.

  7. 07

    Cover and cook

    Cover and cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes. If the poha looks dry, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water and mix gently.

  8. 08

    Finish with lemon and Coriander

    Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the poha. Garnish with chopped coriander and, if you like, a little grated coconut.

  9. 09

    Serve warm

    Serve your fluffy Kanda Poha warm with a cup of chai for a simple, comforting breakfast. ❤️

Serving Suggestions

  • 2

The Story

Poha