Poha with Sev

Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl per serving)

• 1 cup Thick Poha (flattened rice) (पोहा)
• 1 medium, finely chopped Onion (प्याज)
• 1, finely chopped Green chili (हरी मिर्च)
• 8-10 Curry leaves (कड़ी पत्ता)
• 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (राई)
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (हल्दी)
• to taste Salt (नमक)
• 1/2 tsp Sugar (optional, for balance) - optional
• 2 tsp Oil (preferably groundnut or sunflower)
• 1/2, juiced Lemon (निम्बू)
• 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh coriander leaves (धनिया पत्ता)
• 1/4 cup Sev (thin, for topping)
• 2 tbsp, roasted Peanuts (मूंगफली) - optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the poha in a colander under running water for about 1-2 minutes until just soft. Drain well and let it sit to absorb excess water. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and turmeric, gently mix, and set aside.

   5 minutes

   Don’t over-soak the poha or it will turn mushy. Just a quick rinse is enough.

2. 2

   Heat oil in a kadhai or deep pan on medium flame. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves and green chili, sauté for a few seconds.

   3 minutes

   For extra flavor, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) with the tempering.

3. 3

   Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in roasted peanuts if using for added crunch and protein.

   4 minutes

   Keep the flame medium to avoid browning the onions.

4. 4

   Add the rinsed poha, sugar (if using), and salt. Mix gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the poha.

   3 minutes

   Toss lightly with a spatula to keep the poha fluffy.