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Kanda Poha – Traditional Maharashtrian Breakfast

Kanda Poha is a light, healthy, and delicious Maharashtrian breakfast dish made with flattened rice (poha), onions (kanda), green chilies, and mild spices. This dish is simple yet flavorful, often served with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sev.

It is a go-to breakfast across Maharashtra and also enjoyed as a quick evening snack. Its comforting, mildly spiced taste makes it a family favorite.

🥗 Health Benefits

  • ✅ Low in fat and easy to digest.
  • ✅ Provides quick energy from carbs.
  • ✅ Rich in iron and fiber when made with thick poha.

Kanda Poha – Traditional Maharashtrian Breakfast

Kanda Poha is a light, healthy, and delicious Maharashtrian breakfast dish made with flattened rice (poha), onions (kanda), green chilies, and mild spices. This dish is simple yet flavorful, often served with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sev.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Indian, Maharashtrian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1½ cups poha flattened rice
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 green chilies chopped
  • 8 –10 curry leaves
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 2 tbsp peanuts
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves
  • Lemon wedges

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Prepare poha: Wash poha under running water and drain. Keep aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Make tempering: Heat oil, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and peanuts. Fry until peanuts are crunchy.
  3. Add onions: Sauté onions until translucent. Add turmeric and salt.
  4. Mix poha: Add drained poha, stir gently, and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  5. Finish: Garnish with coriander and lemon juice.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Serve hot with tea or coffee.
  • Add sev or grated coconut on top for extra crunch.
  • A bowl of curd makes it more wholesome.
 
❓ FAQs
Q: Which type of poha should I use?
A: Thick poha is best, as it doesn’t turn mushy.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes! Peas, carrots, or capsicum can be added for a nutritious twist.
Q: Why does my poha become sticky?
A: Over-soaking causes stickiness; just rinse and drain.