Poha/Rice Flakes: Types, availability, and recipe.

Ask a Maharashtrian what’s for breakfast and you will usually get to hear its-Pohe ( Pohe is a traditional breakfast recipe made with poha/Flattened rice).

What exactly are Poha/ Flattened rice/Rice flakes?

Rice flakes are made by par-boiling rice and then pounding it to remove the husk which is then flattened and left out to dry. Depending on what extent it is flattened.

Based on the extent to which it is flattened it is further classified into-Thin rice flakes, Thick rice flakes, and nylon rice flakes and this is mainly in the case of flakes made from white rice. In the case of rice flakes made from any other rice (white rice, brown rice, red rice, and even organic rice) it’s usually of one thickness.

Different recipes require different types of flattened rice.

Other Names:

Powaa/pauaa ( Gujarati/Hindi), aval (Tamil), chira (bengal) avalakki etc.

Difference between white, red, and brown poha:

• White poha– It is made from polished white rice. While making the white flattened rice the husk, bran, and germ layers are removed. It is a good source of carbohydrates, easy to digest, and is a good source of iron and fiber. It’s easy to store and prepare. It doesn’t really have any peculiar taste. You get it in 3 varieties- thick rice flakes / jada, thin / Pata poha and nylon poha</li>

• Red</strong> Poha</strong>: It is made from Red rice and is a high source of fiber hence providing great satiety. It’s also a good source of iron and antioxidants. In terms of taste, it has a slightly nuttier taste. It takes longer to soak/cook. Plus it doesn’t look as pretty as the white rice flakes but once you get a hang of it, you will love it.

• Brown Poha: It is made from Brown Rice. It is rich in fiber, iron, zinc, and potassium. Takes a little longer to soak/cook.

Though red rice and brown rice flakes are healthier than regular ones, portion control matters.

Availability:

Rice flakes are easily available at grocery stores, online stores, and often in local farmer’s markets too.</p>

Check out this simple Red rice batata poha recipe and drop me your feedback.