Fusion Spiced Poha Pasta

1Preparing the Poha Start by rinsing the flattened rice (Poha) (2 cups) in a colander under running water (3 cups) until soft. Drain excess water (3 cups) and set aside.

2Cooking the Poha Mix In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil (2 tablespoons). Add cumin seeds (½ teaspoon) and mustard seeds (½ teaspoon). Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.

3Finishing the Poha Mix Add diced tomatoes, green chilies, peanuts (¼ cup), turmeric powder (½ teaspoon), and salt (1 teaspoon). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Then add the rinsed Poha and mix well. Cover and let it cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

4Cooking the Pasta In a separate pot, bring water (3 cups) to a boil. Add pasta and salt (1 teaspoon). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5Prepping the Spices In another pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil (1 tablespoon). Add cumin seeds (½ teaspoon), red chili powder (½ teaspoon), garam masala (½ teaspoon), turmeric powder (½ teaspoon), coriander powder (½ teaspoon), and ginger-garlic paste (½ teaspoon). Sauté for a minute until aromatic.

6Bringing it Together Combine the cooked Poha mix with the cooked pasta. Add the spiced oil (2 tablespoons) mixture and mix everything together gently until well combined. Serve hot and enjoy this unique fusion dish!