A Slice of My Childhood
Growing up in Kerala, coming back home from school was always a mix of exhaustion and excitement. The moment we stepped inside, still in our uniforms and with rumbling tummies, there was one thing we hoped for—a warm plate of Sweet Poha, or Meetha Aval, lovingly prepared by Amma.
The aroma of ghee and jaggery wafting from the kitchen was enough to lift our spirits. It wasn’t fancy, but it didn’t have to be. Just poha, coconut, and jaggery—with a gentle tadka that added a magical depth. We’d sit on the floor, plates in hand, and eat with the kind of joy that only a child knows.
Even now, years later, this humble Kerala snack takes me right back to those carefree afternoons. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a memory, a tradition, and a reminder of how simple ingredients can feed both the body and the soul.
So here’s my version of Sweet Poha, exactly how Amma made it—comforting, quick, and filled with love.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup poha (flattened rice – use thin or medium variety)
- 3–4 tbsp grated jaggery (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp ghee
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- A few curry leaves
- ¼ tsp cardamom powder
- A pinch of salt
🔥 Instructions
1. Rinse the Poha
- Wash poha in a strainer under running water until just softened.
- Do not soak. Drain and let sit for 5–10 minutes to soften further.
2. Mix the Sweet Base
- In a bowl, mix grated jaggery, coconut, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the softened poha and gently combine everything.
3. Temper the Flavor
- Heat ghee in a small pan.
- Add mustard seeds; let them splutter.
- Add curry leaves and sauté briefly.
- Pour this tadka over the poha mixture and mix well.
4. Adjust Moisture (If Needed)
- If the poha feels too dry, sprinkle 1–2 tbsp of milk or water to soften.
5. Serve Warm
- Enjoy fresh and warm, preferably with a hot cup of adrak wali chai! ☕
💡 Tips from Amma’s Kitchen
- Use thin or medium poha for best results.
- Adjust jaggery based on sweetness preference.
- Grated coconut adds freshness—don’t skip it.
- A touch of milk makes it creamier if too dry.