Flattened rice, often called poha, is typically eaten after it's been prepared in a variety of ways, most commonly as a savory breakfast dish.
Here's a breakdown of how flattened rice is prepared and eaten:
- Preparation: The dry, flattened rice flakes are first soaked in water to soften them. The excess water is then drained.
- Tempering: Oil is heated in a pan, and spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves are added to it.
- Flavoring: Common additions include turmeric powder (which gives it a yellow color), chopped onions, green chilies, and peanuts.
- Cooking: The soaked and drained flattened rice is added to the pan and cooked with the tempered spices until heated through and the flavors have melded.
- Garnishing: Fresh coriander leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and sometimes grated coconut are added as garnishes.
Therefore, you eat flattened rice after it has been rehydrated, cooked with spices, and garnished for added flavor. It's commonly enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
