About this matar poha recipe
Matar poha, also known as peas poha, is a popular Indian breakfast dish made from flattened rice (poha) and green peas (matar). Its delightful flavors, ease of preparation and health benefits make it a perfect choice for a quick breakfast, snack or a light lunch.
Recipe highlights –
- Maharashtrian style poha
- Winter favorite recipe with fresh green peas
- Nutritious, providing protein from peas and peanuts
- Kid-friendly with mild flavor
- Perfect for lunch boxes
- Quick & easy, ready in under 20 minutes
Poha is a staple breakfast dish in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and parts of North India, with each region adding its own unique twist. Matar Poha, a variation of Maharashtrian Aloo Poha, includes fresh green peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Health & nutrition
Poha is made from dehusked rice that is parboiled, flattened and dried. Due to minimal processing, it retains slightly more fiber than regular white rice and has a lower glycemic index (GI), but it is still high in carbohydrates. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those managing blood sugar or diabetes. Despite this, poha is light, easy to digest, and provides a quick energy boost, making it a popular choice for breakfast.
However, you can make a few simple changes to boost the nutritional content of this beloved staple and include it as part of a balanced diet. Adding protein- and fiber-rich ingredients like peas, vegetables, and peanuts can help lower the overall GI and create a more well-rounded meal.
Green peas are a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals such as iron and potassium. They support digestion, boost immunity, and help in maintaining healthy skin. Peanuts are also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like magnesium, vitamin E, and niacin. They contribute to heart health and provide a sustained energy boost.
These protein & fiber rich additions make this matar poha recipe healthier and more filling compared to plain poha or aloo poha, allowing you to enjoy your favorite meals while better accommodating weight loss or diabetic-friendly diets.
Main ingredients for matar poha recipe
You will need the following main ingredients for making peas poha –
- Poha – Use thick or medium-sized poha, as the smaller varieties can become mushy when cooked.
- Peas – Fresh peas are ideal, but frozen peas work just as well. You need to boil or microwave them until tender before adding to the dish.
- Peanuts – Roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall flavor of this matar poha.
- Onions, green chilies and curry leaves – These aromatic ingredients are essential for creating the authentic Maharashtrian flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens the dish.
- Coriander – Freshly chopped coriander leaves provide a burst of color and enhance the flavor with their herbaceous notes.
Serving suggestions
Serve matar poha hot, garnished with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
You can pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a complete breakfast experience. For a more substantial meal, you can accompany matar poha with yogurt or a side of fresh salad.
Matar Poha is also perfect for packing in lunch boxes or tiffins, as it stays fresh and flavorful for hours. Its balanced nutrition and portability make it an ideal option for a healthy and satisfying midday meal at work or school.
To make matar poha at home follow the detailed step by step recipe with pictures posted below.
Matar Poha Recipe | Peas Poha
Recipe Info
Nutrition
Ingredients For Matar Poha Recipe | Peas Poha
- 2 Cups Poha (Flattened Rice) thick or medium-sized
- 1 Cup Peas
- 1/4 Cup Peanuts
- 2 Green Chillies
- 8-10 Curry Leaves (Kari Patta)
- 1 Medium Sized Onion finely chopped
- 1 Teaspoon Rai (Black Mustard Seeds)
- 1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
- 1/4 Teaspoon Red Chilli Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 Cup Coriander Leaves (Cilantro or Dhaniya)
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 Tablespoon Cooking Oil
Step By Step Instructions for Matar Poha Recipe | Peas Poha
- Boil fresh peas (matar) with a pinch of salt in a pan until they are tender. Once cooked, drain the water and set the peas aside. If using frozen peas, sprinkle them with a bit of water and microwave for 2.5-3 minutes.1 Cup Peas
- Take poha in a vessel and rinse it with water 3-4 times, or until the water runs clear. You can use either thick or medium-sized poha.2 Cups Poha (Flattened Rice)
- Drain the water and cover the vessel with a lid or plate. Allow the poha to sit and absorb any remaining moisture while you prepare the tempering.
- Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds (rai) and fry them until they start to splutter.1 Tablespoon Cooking Oil, 1 Teaspoon Rai (Black Mustard Seeds)
- Next, add peanuts and roast them over low to medium heat.1/4 Cup Peanuts
- Roast the peanuts until they turn slightly brown and fragrant.
- Add curry leaves and finely chopped green chilies, frying them for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add finely chopped onions.1 Medium Sized Onion, 2 Green Chillies, 8-10 Curry Leaves (Kari Patta)
- Sauté the onions over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they turn slightly golden brown.
- Add in the turmeric powder, red chilli powder and salt.1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Haldi), 1/4 Teaspoon Red Chilli Powder, 1 Teaspoon Salt
- Mix the spices with the masala.
- Now, add the rinsed poha to the pan.
- Also add the cooked green peas (matar).
- Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Add a sprinkle of water, then cover the pan with a lid.
- Let the poha cook for 2-3 minutes. Then turn off the heat and keep the poha covered with the lid, allowing it to steam and finish cooking.
- Add finely chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix well to combine.1/4 Cup Coriander Leaves (Cilantro or Dhaniya), 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
- Matar poha is ready. Serve hot topped with some sev or bhujia.
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