Masala Poha (Thick Poha Upma)

Ingredients

• Avil (thick poha or rice flakes) - 1 cup
• Shallots - 5 whole
• Green chilies - 3 whole
• Carrot - 1 whole
• Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
• Urad dal - 1/4 tsp
• Cumin seeds - 1/4 tsp
• Turmeric powder - 1 pinch
• Curry leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Oil
• Coriander leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the vegetables: finely chop the shallots, green chilies and carrot, and pluck the curry leaves if using.
2. 2Rinse the poha briefly in a sieve under cold running water, then drain immediately and set aside so it softens without becoming mushy.
3. 3Heat oil in a frying pan until it shimmers, then add the mustard seeds, urad dal, cumin seeds and curry leaves and let them splutter and become fragrant.
4. 4Add the chopped shallots, green chilies and carrot, and sauté until the shallots turn translucent and the carrot softens, so you get a lightly sweet, cooked aroma.
5. 5Stir in the turmeric powder, add the drained poha and salt, then toss everything gently to combine and cook for 2 - 3 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
6. 6Taste and adjust seasoning, garnish with curry leaves or coriander leaves, and serve hot. Optional: squeeze a little lemon over each portion just before eating for brightness.