Skip to Content

Masala Poha Recipe – Quick, Healthy & Perfect for Your Morning Tiffin

“A 15-Minute Classic for Busy Mornings and Perfect Lunchboxes”


👋 Welcome to Tiffin Express!

This is our very first recipe blog — and we’re starting with a classic that’s close to every Indian heart (and stomach) — Masala Poha!

Whether you’re rushing to work, packing your kid’s lunch, or just craving something light and tasty, this recipe is your go-to. Ready in under 15 minutes, using just pantry basics — it's the definition of a perfect tiffin recipe.

Masala Poha Recipe

🍽️ Recipe: Masala Poha (Serves 2)

🧂 Ingredients:

  • 1 cup flattened rice (poha) – thick variety preferred
  • 1 medium onion – finely chopped
  • 1 small potato – peeled & diced (optional)
  • 2 green chilies – chopped
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
  • 6–8 curry leaves
  • 2 tbsp peanuts (optional but recommended)
  • Salt – to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander – chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 lemon – to squeeze on top


🔪 Instructions:

  1. Prep the Poha:
    Rinse poha in a strainer under cold water for 10–15 seconds. Let it sit and soften while you prep other ingredients.
  2. Heat Oil:
    In a pan, heat oil. Add mustard seeds. Once they crackle, add curry leaves, green chilies, and peanuts. Fry for 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté Veggies:
    Add onions (and potatoes if using). Cook until onions turn soft and potatoes are cooked through.
  4. Spice It Up:
    Add turmeric and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add Poha:
    Gently mix in the soaked poha. Stir for 2–3 minutes on low flame till well combined and warm.
  6. Garnish & Serve:
    Switch off heat. Add chopped coriander and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.

Masala Poha Recipe

📦 Tiffin Tip:

Let it cool slightly before packing. Wrap your lemon slice separately to keep flavors fresh till lunchtime!


💡 Why This Recipe Works:

✅ 15 minutes or less

✅ Budget-friendly

✅ No fancy ingredients

✅ Vegan & gluten-free

✅ Kid and office-tiffin approved!


🔄 Variations You Can Try:

  • Add sweet corn or green peas for color & crunch
  • Skip green chili & add a pinch of red chili powder for kids
  • Sprinkle sev or grated coconut on top for a Mumbai-style twist