Share
Poha is not just a breakfast in India, but it’s a morning ritual that has made its place in countless households. For many, the day does not actually begin until the familiar aroma of crackling mustard seeds, curry leaves, and steaming poha wafts from the kitchen. Not only this, but what makes poha unique is its incredible adaptability. Every region has made its own variety of poha, and every home cook has experimented with it with their own creativity, interest, or simply to break the usual taste of the breakfast. Some mornings call for a lightly sweet, fluffy version; other days ask for a punchy, spicy bowl that instantly wakes up the senses.
As people look for new creativity without wandering too far from comfort, poha evolves the perfect canvas, absorbing flavours, textures, and memories effortlessly. It is simple, warm, endlessly adaptable, and always ready to reinvent itself while feeling extremely familiar.
Indori Poha
Indori Poha needs no introduction and is light, fluffy, and a bit sweet. What maintains its iconic taste is the gentle hint of sugar, the aroma of jeeravan masala (a special masala spice), and the crunch from generously sprinkled sev from the top. The poha remains soft but not mushy, soaking the flavours of hing, mustard, and green chillies beautifully without being too oily. A squeeze of lemon in the end brightens every bite, whereas the garnishing of pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander adds to the freshness. Indori poha is a comforting breakfast that feels both light and fulfilling.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Kanda Poha, Maharashtra
Maharashtrian Kanda Poha has a unique flavour, all thanks to a base of slow-caramelised onions that deliver sweetness without overpowering the dish. The poha remains soft, well-steamed and is never sticky. The tiny bursts of roasted peanuts deliver crunch against the silky caramelised onions, whereas green chillies give a pleasant warmth rather than sharp spice flavour. With lemon juice squeezed on top, every bite strikes a perfect balance of earthy, bright, and gentle spicy notes. Kanda poha feels homely and is a satisfying bowl that feels familiar but with depth of taste.
Chuda Ghasa Poha, Odisha
Chuda Ghasa, hailing from Odisha, is not the typical cooked poha, but it is a no-flame, hand-mixed dish with a rural, almost festive charm. The poha rice is lightly crushed, delivering a slightly rough, grainy texture that carries the flavours beautifully. Adding fresh coconut delivers creaminess, jaggery adds to the sweetness, and cardamom infuses the mixture with some warmth. The taste feels like a cross between a savoury snack and a dessert, which is soft, crumbly, aromatic, and extremely comforting. Adding groundnuts and black pepper adds to the gentle contrasts. Chuda ghada poha is a simple yet layered dish, making it a staple during pujas and festivities.
(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Batata Poha, Gujarat/Maharashtra
Batata Poha gives a cosy, comforting twist by pairing poha with soft cubes of sautéed potatoes. The contrast in the texture is what the main star is- the grains remain light and fluffy, whereas the potatoes deliver gentle richness. Adding mild spices, such as turmeric, mustard seeds, and green chillies, coats everything evenly without overpowering the flavour. Sprinkling coriander leaves and sev from the top adds to the freshness and crunch. Batata poha tastes warm, lightly spiced, and extremely satisfying, particularly on cold winter mornings. Every bite feels familiar and nourishing, making it a favourite of many across western India.
Tarri Poha, Nagpur
A combination of bold, fiery flavours and full-bodied, that is what tarri poha is for you. The poha remains soft and delicate, acting like a base for the star dish, i.e. tarri, a spicy black-chana gravy that is poured generously from the top. The contrast of the taste is compelling as the gentle poha absorbs some gravy, while still maintaining its texture, and every bite has a contrast between soft, spicy, tangy, and smoky flavours. Garnish with chopped onions, sev, and coriander, adding the layers of crunch and freshness. Tarri poha is warm, vibrant, and extremely addictive, delivering a street-style delight that wakes up all your senses instantly.
(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
