Poha Atukulu Upma - Preparation

Poha, known as Atukulu Upma in Telugu, is a light and wholesome South Indian breakfast dish made from flattened rice. It’s quick to prepare, easy to digest, and perfect for busy mornings. With a simple tempering of onions, chilies, and curry leaves, this dish brings together mild flavors, a touch of tanginess from lemon, and the soft texture of poha.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Flattened rice (poha / atukulu)	2 cups	Medium thickness preferred
Onion	1 medium	Finely chopped
Green chilies	2	Slit or chopped
Curry leaves	8–10	Fresh
Mustard seeds	½ tsp	—
Cumin seeds	½ tsp	—
Turmeric powder	¼ tsp	—
Salt	To taste	—
Oil	2 tbsp	—
Lemon juice	1 tbsp	Freshly squeezed
Coriander leaves	2 tbsp	Chopped
Water	~½ cup	For rinsing poha

Preparation Steps

Rinse the Poha

Put poha in a colander.

Wash gently under running water for 5–10 seconds.

Drain completely; sprinkle salt and turmeric, mix lightly, and set aside.

Heat Oil and Temper

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wide pan on medium flame.

Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Fry for a few seconds.

Sauté Onion

Add chopped onion.

Fry until soft and lightly golden.

Add Poha

Reduce heat to low.

Add the prepared poha.

Gently mix so the spices coat the poha evenly without breaking it.

Steam Cook

Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes on low heat.

Stir once or twice very gently.

Finish

Switch off the flame.

Add lemon juice and chopped coriander; mix lightly.

Serve hot.

Poha (Atukulu Upma) is not just a quick breakfast but also a comforting snack at any time of day. Its mild spice, fresh aroma, and soft texture make it a family favorite. You can also enhance the dish by adding roasted peanuts or boiled vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.