Ingredients

• Poha (Flattened Rice): 1 cup
• Besan (Gram Flour): 1/2 cup
• Salt: To taste
• Turmeric Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Red Chili Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
• Cumin Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
• Oil: For frying
• Chopped Coriander Leaves: For garnish
• Lemon Wedges: For serving

Instructions

1. Preparing the Poha:
   • Take 1 cup of poha in a colander and rinse it under running water. Gently wash it twice to remove any impurities. Ensure you don’t soak it; a quick rinse suffices to slightly soften the poha without making it mushy.
   • After washing, allow the poha to drain completely. Spread it on a clean kitchen towel or plate to air-dry for a few minutes. This step ensures the poha retains its shape and achieves the desired crispiness when fried.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, add the drained poha and 1/2 cup of besan.
   • Season the mixture with salt to taste. For added flavor, you can incorporate optional spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, and cumin seeds.
   • Using a spatula or your hands, gently mix the ingredients until the poha is evenly coated with the besan and spices. If the mixture feels too dry, you can sprinkle a little water to help the besan adhere better, but be cautious to avoid making it soggy.
3. Frying the Poha Mixture:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it rises to the surface gradually, the oil is at the right temperature.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully add spoonfuls of the poha-besan mixture into the oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.
   • Fry the mixture until it turns golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This should take about 4-5 minutes per batch.
   • Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried poha from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. Serving:
   • Transfer the crispy poha to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
   • Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the snack elevates its flavor profile, adding a tangy zest.

Possible Questions

1. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
   • Absolutely! Finely chopped onions, green chilies, or grated carrots can be mixed with the poha and besan mixture for added texture and nutrition.
2. Is there an alternative to frying?
   • Yes, for a healthier version, you can bake the mixture. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F), spread the mixture evenly on a baking tray, drizzle with a little oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, stirring halfway through.
3. Can I store the leftover crispy poha?
   • Certainly. Once cooled, store the crispy poha in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.
4. What variations can I try?
   • You can experiment by adding roasted peanuts, cashews, or raisins to the mixture. Sprinkling chaat masala after frying also imparts a tangy flavor.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Poha

• Avoid Overwashing: Overwashing can make the poha too soft, leading to a mushy texture. A quick rinse is sufficient.
• Consistent Frying Temperature: Maintaining a medium flame ensures the poha cooks evenly without burning.
• Uniform Mixing: Ensuring the besan coats the poha uniformly is crucial for consistent crispiness.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the quantity of red chili powder based on your heat preference.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: After cooling, store the crispy poha in an airtight container. It remains crunchy for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: If the poha loses its crispiness, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 150°C (302°F) for 5 minutes.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Conclusion

This instant crispy poha snack beautifully marries simplicity with flavor. Its quick preparation makes it an ideal choice for those moments when you’re pressed for time but crave something delectable. The combination of poha and besan not only offers a delightful crunch but also ensures the snack is light on the palate. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea in the morning or serving it to unexpected guests in the evening, this recipe is bound to impress. So, the next time you’re pondering over a quick snack idea, remember this crispy poha recipe and dive into its flavorful embrace!