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Poha Chivda
Breakfast • India
How to Make Poha Chivda (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Poha Chivda is a classic Maharashtrian snack and breakfast dish, cherished across West India. Made with thin flattened rice (poha), roasted nuts, and a medley of spices, Poha Chivda offers a delightful combination of crunch, flavor, and nutrition. This savory snack is especially popular during Diwali, when households across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka prepare large batches to welcome guests and celebrate with family. Its lightness and versatility make it a perfect tea-time treat or a quick breakfast option for busy mornings. What sets Poha Chivda apart is its unique balance of textures—crisp poha, crunchy peanuts (moongphali), and cashews (kaju), complemented by the subtle heat of green chilies and the aroma of curry leaves (kadi patta). The addition of roasted chana dal and a hint of sweetness from raisins or sugar elevates its flavor profile. This healthy, vegetarian dish is traditionally enjoyed with a cup of masala chai, making it an integral part of Indian culinary culture. Whether served during festivals or as an everyday snack, Poha Chivda is a wholesome, satisfying, and guilt-free choice.
Ingredients(for 1 cup per serving)
- 2 cups Thin poha (flattened rice) (chivda poha)
- 1/4 cup Peanuts (moongphali)
- 2 tbsp Cashew nuts (kaju)
- 2 tbsp Roasted chana dal (dalia)
- 12-15 Curry leaves (kadi patta)
- 2 Green chilies (finely sliced; hari mirch)
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 1 tsp Sugar (optional; for sweetness) - optional
- 1.5 tbsp Oil (use groundnut or sunflower oil)
- 1 tbsp Raisins (kishmish) - optional
- 2 tbsp Sev (optional; for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Dry roast the thin poha in a large kadhai or thick-bottomed pan on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring gently, until it turns crisp without browning. Transfer to a large bowl and set aside.
7 minutes
Stir continuously to prevent poha from burning and ensure even crispness.
- 2
Heat oil in the same kadhai. Add mustard seeds (rai) and let them splutter. Then add curry leaves and green chilies; sauté for 1 minute till fragrant.
2 minutes
For extra aroma, add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) with the tempering.
- 3
Add peanuts and roast on low-medium heat till golden and crunchy. Next, add cashew nuts and continue roasting for another minute.
3 minutes
Roast nuts separately if you want extra crunch, then add to the mix.
- 4
Add roasted chana dal and raisins, sauté for 1 minute. Stir in turmeric powder (haldi) and mix well.
2 minutes
Adding turmeric at this stage gives a vibrant color without burning.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Poha Chivda recipe is roasted, not deep-fried, keeping the calorie count low while preserving flavor and crunch. It includes heart-healthy nuts and seeds, making it a wholesome breakfast or snack option for weight management. The combination of slow-digesting carbs, protein, and healthy fats keeps you fuller for longer, curbing unnecessary snacking. Free from artificial additives and suitable for vegetarians, it fits perfectly into a balanced, health-conscious Indian diet.
Poha Chivda is a nutrient-rich snack with a healthy balance of carbohydrates from poha, plant-based protein from peanuts and chana dal, and good fats from nuts. It is light on the stomach, naturally gluten-free (if gluten-free sev is used), and provides essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. The use of turmeric adds anti-inflammatory properties, while curry leaves and green chilies contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. With minimal oil used for roasting and an abundance of fiber, this dish supports digestive health and sustained energy release.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use thin poha (chivda poha) for the best crispy texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Always roast poha on low flame to avoid burning.
- 💡Tip 3: Add roasted nuts and chana dal only after tempering to maintain their crunch.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled Poha Chivda in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep away from moisture to maintain crispness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
