Kande Pohe

Kande pohe is a popular Maharashtrian breakfast recipe which literally translates to onion rice flakes. Ever since I remember, my mom used to make aval in this style only and I simply love it. It is one of my favourites. But, what did I have in store, after my marriage? Yes you guessed it right; it was one of the very few dishes which my hubby disliked. Not that he won’t touch it if I prepare it, but he never relishes it. He always feels it is too dry. So I prepare it on days he is eating out or when he is touring.

Traditionally, fennel seeds are not added in pohe, but once while making, I experimented by adding it and I simply loved its flavour. So adding fennel is purely your choice, but do try it once. Also the highlight of this recipe is definitely the squeeze of lemon juice, but since I don’t like it that way, I usually remove some for myself and then add the lemon juice for others J You could add potatoes and green peas as well while preparing this recipe.

What you’ll need

1. Poha/Aval/Flattened Rice Flakes – 2 cups
2. Onion – 3 medium sized
3. Green Chillies – 2
4. Peanuts – 2 handfuls
5. Cumin Seeds – ½ tsp
6. Fennel Seeds – ½ tsp
7. Juice of ½ a lemon
8. Turmeric Powder – ¼ tsp
9. Sugar – 1 tsp
10. Salt to taste
11. Curry Leaves – few sprigs
12. Coriander Leaves – 1 tbsp, finely chopped
13. Oil – 2 to 3 tbsp

Method

1. Chop the onions and green chillies.
2. Take the rice flakes in a sieve, and wash it well. Allow to drain.
3. Heat a Kadai with oil. Temper with cumin and fennel seeds. Also add the curry leaves.
4. Next add the peanuts and fry till the outer skin gets brown.
5. Add in the green chillies and onions and turmeric powder. Fry well till the onions start browning.
6. Now add the drained rice flakes, sugar and salt to taste. Mix well on medium heat till everything gets thoroughly mixed.
7. Remove from heat. Add a dash of lemon juice and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
8. Serve hot.

Note: 

If using Thick variety Aval, wash and soak in water for 5 minutes. Keep the level of water just at the level of the Aval.
You can add cubed potatoes and fresh or frozen green peas too.

Adding fennel is completely optional, but it does give a wonderful flavor.

You could also add a tbsp of fresh scraped coconut as garnish, but I usually skip this.

Linking this to Swathi's Event - Favorite Recipes - Breakfast