Poha in English is known as flattened rice.
What is Flattened Rice?
Flattened rice, often referred to by its common South Asian name "poha," is a type of rice that has been husked, parboiled, and then flattened into light, dry flakes. This process makes it very quick and easy to cook, as it requires minimal preparation—often just soaking in water or milk for a short time.
It is a breakfast staple across many parts of South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Its versatility allows it to be used in various dishes, both savory and sweet.
Regional Names for Flattened Rice
While "poha" is widely recognized, flattened rice goes by several other names depending on the local language and region:
| Name (Local Language) | Region / Country | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Poha | India (Hindi Belt, Marathi) | Common for the flakes and the dish |
| Aval | South India (Tamil, Malayalam) | Common for the flakes |
| Chira | East India (Bengali, Assamese), Bangladesh | Used for the flakes |
| Chiura | Nepal, North India | Used for the flakes |
| Atukulu | South India (Telugu) | Used for the flakes |
Culinary Significance and Uses
Flattened rice is cherished for its ease of preparation and its ability to absorb flavors quickly. It forms the base for a multitude of dishes, most famously the breakfast item also called "poha" in India.
Popular Preparations:
- Savory Poha: This classic Indian breakfast involves sautéing the flattened rice with onions, potatoes, peanuts, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and spices, often garnished with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime.
- Sweet Poha: It can be mixed with milk, sugar or jaggery, and fruits like banana for a quick, nutritious meal.
- Snacks: Flattened rice can be deep-fried or roasted to create crunchy snacks.
Why is Flattened Rice Popular?
- Quick Cooking: It cooks much faster than whole rice, making it ideal for quick meals.
- Versatile: It adapts well to various flavor profiles, from spicy and savory to sweet.
- Nutritious: It is a good source of carbohydrates and can be enriched with vegetables and proteins.
- Digestible: Its light texture makes it easy to digest.
Flattened rice is an essential ingredient in many South Asian households, valued for its convenience and culinary flexibility.
