When it comes to Indian breakfasts, poha is one of the most comforting, quick, and wholesome choices loved across households. From Maharashtra to Madhya Pradesh and even Karnataka, poha has countless regional variations. But today, we elevate this traditional dish by infusing it with the power of millets. Introducing Finger Millet Poha (Ragi Poha) — a delightful, earthy, and nutrition-packed version of the classic poha that tastes just as comforting while offering significantly more health benefits.
Finger millet, commonly known as ragi, has long been regarded as a superfood in India. Rich in calcium, iron, fibre, and essential minerals, ragi is perfect for all age groups—especially children, women, and fitness enthusiasts. This recipe transforms simple poha into a wholesome, millet-based breakfast that keeps you full, energetic, and satisfied for hours.
Ragi poha is made using flattened finger millet flakes, which have a slightly earthy flavour, soft texture, and a beautiful deep colour. Combined with onions, curry leaves, peanuts, and mild spices, this recipe becomes both nutritious and delicious, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings.
Let’s dive into this flavourful millet breakfast!
🥗 Why Choose Finger Millet?
Before we get to the recipe, here’s why ragi deserves a special place in your meals:
✨ Rich in Calcium – Helps strengthen bones and teeth
✨ High Iron Content – Prevents anemia and boosts energy
✨ High Fibre – Improves digestion and supports weight loss
✨ Low Glycemic Index – Keeps blood sugar levels steady
✨ Gluten-Free Grain – Ideal for gluten sensitivities
✨ Great for Kids & Elders – Easy to digest, nutrient-dense
In short, adding ragi to poha makes it one of the healthiest breakfast options you can serve!
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
🌾 Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Finger Millet Poha (Ragi Poha)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 small Potato, chopped into small cubes 🥔 (optional)
- 1 small Carrot, grated 🥕
- ¼ cup Green Peas 🟢
- 2–3 Green Chillies, slit 🌶️
- 1 tsp Grated Ginger
🫘 For Tempering
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 8–10 Curry Leaves 🌿
- 2 tbsp Peanuts 🥜
- A pinch of Hing (Asafoetida)
🧂 Spices & Seasoning
- ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice 🍋
- Fresh Coriander Leaves, chopped 🌿
👩🍳 How to Make Finger Millet Poha – Step-by-Step
🥣 Step 1: Rinse the Ragi Poha
Place the ragi poha in a strainer and rinse lightly under running water.
⚠️ Do not over-wash; ragi poha turns soft quickly.
Let it rest for 2–3 minutes to absorb moisture and soften.
🍳 Step 2: Prepare the Tempering
Heat oil in a pan. Add:
- Mustard seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Curry leaves
- Peanuts
- Hing
Let the peanuts crisp up—they add a delicious crunch to the poha.
🧅 Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics & Vegetables
Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
Then add:
🫑 Grated carrot
🟢 Green peas
🥔 Potatoes
🌶️ Green chillies
🧄 Ginger
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until veggies soften slightly.
🧂 Step 4: Add Spices
Add turmeric and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables.
🥣 Step 5: Add the Soaked Ragi Poha
Now gently add the softened ragi poha.
Mix everything without mashing the flakes.
If it looks dry, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of water.
🍋 Step 6: Finish with Lemon & Coriander
Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and fresh coriander leaves.
Toss lightly. Your delectable Finger Millet Poha is ready!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- A cup of masala chai ☕
- A bowl of curd 🥛
- A drizzle of ghee for richness 🧈
- Extra lemon for tang 🍋
It also pairs well with coconut chutney for a South Indian twist.
🌟 Why This Recipe Stands Out
✔️ Perfect millet-based breakfast
✔️ Vegan-friendly & gluten-free
✔️ Kids love it because of its soft texture
✔️ Great for weight loss diets
✔️ Quick recipe—ready in just 10 minutes
✔️ Easy to pack in lunch boxes
Whether you’re trying to reduce rice-based foods or include more millets, this poha is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to switch.
🔄 Variations You Can Try
🌱 1. Vegetable-Loaded Ragi Poha
Add capsicum, beans, sweet corn, or spinach.
🔥 2. Spicy Ragi Poha
Increase green chillies + add red chilli flakes.
🥥 3. Coconut Ragi Poha
Add fresh grated coconut at the end for a coastal flavour.
🫘 4. Protein-Rich Version
Add boiled sprouts, soya chunks, or tofu cubes.
🍠 5. Sweet Ragi Poha
Replace spices with jaggery, coconut, and cardamom.
❤️ Conclusion
Finger Millet Poha beautifully combines the richness of traditional Indian millet with the comfort of classic poha. It’s a wholesome, colourful, veggie-loaded dish that suits every palate—from weight watchers to busy professionals to children needing a nutritious start. Ready in minutes, filling, and incredibly healthy, this recipe deserves a regular spot in your breakfast rotation.
Give this millet-based twist a try, and you may never go back to regular poha again!