Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Poha

   Take 1 cup of thin poha in a sieve and wash it thoroughly under running water. Do not soak it, just wet it. Let it sit in the sieve for a while to drain excess water.

2. 2.Combine Ingredients for Dough

   Transfer the washed poha into a mixing bowl. Add 0.5 cup of semolina (suji) and 1 cup of yogurt (dahi). Season with 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of chili flakes. Add a little chopped coriander leaves.

3. 3.Mix and Rest the Dough

   Mix all the ingredients well to form a cohesive dough. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the semolina to swell and absorb moisture.

4. 4.Form Poha Bites

   After resting, lightly knead the dough. Grease your hands with a little oil. Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small, flat tikkis or bites. Place them on a greased steaming plate.

5. 5.Steam the Poha Bites

   Place the plate with poha bites into a steamer with boiling water. Cover and steam on high heat for 8 to 10 minutes until they are cooked through and soft. Once steamed, remove them from the steamer and let them cool slightly.

6. 6.Prepare Tempering

   Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over low-medium heat. Add 0.5 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 0.5 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Let them crackle. Then add a few curry leaves and sliced red and green chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds.

7. 7.Toss Poha Bites with Tempering

   Add the steamed poha bites to the pan with the tempering. Sprinkle 2.5 teaspoons of sambar powder and a little more chopped coriander leaves. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the bites are well coated with the spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the bites are lightly golden and coated.

8. 8.Serve

   Turn off the gas. Transfer the crispy and flavorful poha bites to a serving plate. Serve hot with coconut chutney and tomato ketchup.