Foxtail Millet Lemon Poha is a refreshing. light. and nutritious breakfast dish inspired by the classic South Indian lemon rice and traditional poha. This recipe replaces flattened rice with foxtail millet poha. making it healthier. more filling. and suitable for everyday clean eating 🌿.
Lemon flavored dishes are popular in Indian cuisine for their fresh taste and digestive benefits. Foxtail Millet Lemon Poha captures that same brightness with the added goodness of millets. The soft millet flakes. aromatic tempering. crunchy peanuts. and fresh lemon juice come together to create a dish that wakes up the palate while being gentle on the stomach.
This poha is perfect for breakfast. brunch. light lunch. or even as a travel friendly meal. It requires minimal cooking time and uses simple ingredients. making it ideal for busy mornings and mindful eating.
🌾 Why Foxtail Millet Is Ideal for Lemon Poha
Foxtail millet is one of the most versatile and widely consumed millets in India. It is rich in dietary fiber. plant based protein. and essential minerals. Unlike refined grains. foxtail millet digests slowly and provides steady energy without heaviness.
✨ Key benefits of foxtail millet
✔ Helps regulate blood sugar levels
✔ Supports digestion and gut health
✔ Light and easy to digest
✔ Keeps you full for longer hours
✔ Naturally gluten free
When used as poha. foxtail millet absorbs flavors beautifully while maintaining a soft and fluffy texture.
🛒 Ingredients Required
For Foxtail Millet Poha
- Foxtail millet poha – 1 cup
- Salt – as per taste
- Turmeric powder – ¼ teaspoon
For Tempering
- Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Urad dal – 1 teaspoon
- Chana dal – 1 teaspoon
- Raw peanuts – 2 tablespoons
- Dry red chili – 1
- Green chilies slit – 1 or 2
- Curry leaves – few
- Asafoetida hing – a pinch
Flavor and Garnish
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons or to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves – chopped
- Grated coconut – 2 tablespoons optional
👩🍳 Step by Step Preparation
🔹 Step 1. Preparing the Foxtail Millet Poha
Place foxtail millet poha in a bowl. Rinse gently under running water for a few seconds. Do not soak for long as poha softens quickly. Drain completely and rest for 5 minutes.
Add salt and turmeric powder to the softened poha. Mix gently using fingers to avoid breaking the flakes. Keep aside.
🔹 Step 2. Preparing the Tempering
Heat oil in a wide pan on medium flame. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.
Add urad dal and chana dal and fry until they turn light golden. Add peanuts and roast until crisp and aromatic.
Add dry red chili. green chilies. curry leaves. and asafoetida. Sauté until curry leaves become crisp and the tempering releases a rich aroma ✨.
🔹 Step 3. Mixing the Poha
Lower the flame and add the prepared foxtail millet poha to the pan. Mix gently so the poha gets evenly coated with the tempering.
Cover and cook on low flame for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir once gently in between to avoid sticking. This step allows the poha to absorb flavors fully without drying out.
Turn off the flame once the poha is heated through.
🔹 Step 4. Adding Lemon Flavor
Allow the poha to cool slightly for a minute. Add fresh lemon juice and mix gently. Adding lemon juice at the end preserves its freshness and prevents bitterness.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and grated coconut if using. Mix lightly.
😋 Serving Suggestions
Foxtail Millet Lemon Poha tastes best when served warm. It pairs beautifully with
🥥 Coconut chutney
🍌 Banana slices on the side
🥣 Plain curd for balance
This dish is ideal for breakfast. lunch boxes. and travel meals as it stays light and flavorful.
💡 Tips and Variations
✔ Do not over rinse poha to prevent mushiness
✔ Always add lemon juice after turning off flame
✔ Adjust spice level according to preference
✔ Add grated carrot for extra nutrition
✔ Use fresh curry leaves for best aroma
🌿 Health Benefits
Foxtail Millet Lemon Poha is rich in fiber. antioxidants. and essential minerals. It supports digestion. boosts metabolism. and provides clean energy without heaviness. Lemon juice aids digestion and improves nutrient absorption. while peanuts add healthy fats and protein.
This dish is suitable for diabetics. weight watchers. elders. and kids. It is an excellent option for people transitioning from rice based breakfasts to millet based meals.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Foxtail Millet Lemon Poha is a perfect example of how traditional flavors can be enjoyed in a healthier form. The tangy lemon. aromatic tempering. and soft millet flakes create a dish that is refreshing. comforting. and nourishing ❤️.
Including such millet based breakfasts in your routine helps maintain energy. digestion. and overall well being while keeping meals simple and delicious. This poha proves that healthy food can be quick. flavorful. and deeply satisfying.