Poha Flour Recipe – Warm Indian Drink with Jaggery & Dry Fruits

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Poha Flour Recipe – Warm Indian Drink with Jaggery & Dry Fruits

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s incredibly close to my heart – a warm, comforting drink made with poha flour, jaggery, and a sprinkle of dry fruits. It’s something my nani (grandmother) used to make for me during the monsoon, and honestly, it still feels like a warm hug in a mug. It’s super easy to make, perfect for a cozy evening, and a lovely way to enjoy the subtle flavors of flattened rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a little piece of nostalgia. It’s quick – ready in under 10 minutes! – and requires minimal ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally warming and subtly sweet, making it a fantastic alternative to coffee or tea, especially when you’re craving something a little different. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover poha flour.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful drink:

• 2 teaspoon Poha (Flattened Rice) Flour
• 1-1.5 cups Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Crushed Jaggery/Jaggery Powder – as per taste (start with 1-2 tablespoons)
• A pinch of Salt
• Dry Fruits – as desired (almonds, cashews, pistachios work beautifully!)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Poha (Flattened Rice) Flour: Source & Quality

You can find poha flour in most Indian grocery stores. If you can’t find it pre-made, you can easily make your own by grinding poha (flattened rice) into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. The quality of the poha matters – look for a light, airy variety.

Jaggery: Types & Regional Variations

Jaggery is unrefined sugar, and it adds a beautiful caramel-like flavor. There are different types – some are darker and more molasses-rich than others. I personally love using a good quality organic jaggery. In some regions, people also use date palm jaggery, which has a slightly different flavour profile.

Milk: Dairy vs. Plant-Based Options

Feel free to use whatever milk you prefer! Traditional recipes use full-fat milk for a richer taste, but almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work wonderfully for a vegan option. Just be aware that plant-based milks might slightly alter the flavour.

Dry Fruits: Traditional Choices & Health Benefits

Traditionally, almonds and cashews are used, but feel free to experiment! Pistachios, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of raisins are lovely. Dry fruits not only add a delightful texture but also a boost of healthy fats and nutrients.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, in a nice cozy bowl, combine the poha flour and crushed jaggery.
2. Now, slowly pour in the hot milk, while stirring constantly. This is key to preventing lumps! Keep stirring until everything is nicely combined and you reach your desired consistency.
3. Add a tiny pinch of salt. It might sound strange, but it really balances the sweetness.
4. Finally, top with your favourite dry fruits and serve warm. I like to crush mine a little before sprinkling them on top.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years…

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The consistency is really up to you! Some like it thicker, almost like a porridge, while others prefer it thinner, more like a warm milk drink. Adjust the amount of milk accordingly.

Preventing Lumps

The secret to a smooth drink is constant stirring while adding the milk. If you do get a few lumps, don’t panic! Just whisk vigorously or strain the drink through a fine-mesh sieve.

Choosing the Right Jaggery

Darker jaggery will give a more intense flavour, while lighter jaggery will be more subtle. Taste as you go and adjust the amount to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Poha Flour Drink

Simply use your favourite plant-based milk! Almond milk and oat milk are my go-to choices.

Gluten-Free Considerations

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as poha flour is made from rice. Just double-check the packaging of your jaggery and dry fruits to ensure they haven’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with less jaggery and add more to taste. You can also use a sugar substitute if you prefer.

Winter/Monsoon Adaptations – Spice Infusions

During colder months, I love adding a pinch of cardamom powder or a tiny piece of ginger while heating the milk. It adds a lovely warming spice!

Serving Suggestions

This drink is best enjoyed warm, straight from the stove. It’s perfect as a breakfast drink, a cozy evening treat, or even a light dessert. I sometimes serve it with a side of khakhra (thin cracker) for a complete snack.

Storage Instructions

This drink is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Poha Flour and where can I find it?

Poha flour is made from ground flattened rice. You can find it in Indian grocery stores, or make your own by grinding poha in a blender.

Can I use brown sugar instead of jaggery?

You can, but the flavour won’t be quite the same. Jaggery has a unique caramel-like flavour that brown sugar doesn’t quite replicate.

What type of milk works best in this recipe?

Any milk you like! Full-fat milk is traditional, but plant-based milks work beautifully too.

How can I make this drink colder for warmer months?

Simply let it cool completely and then chill it in the refrigerator. You can also add a few ice cubes before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for diabetics, and if so, what modifications should be made?

While jaggery has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, it still contains sugar. Diabetics should consume this drink in moderation and consult with their doctor or a registered dietitian. Using a sugar substitute is also an option.

Can I add any spices to enhance the flavour?

Absolutely! Cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, or even a pinch of saffron would all be delicious additions.