Savory Beaten Rice Or 'Poha'

Serves: 2
Cooking time (approx.): 8 minutes
Style: Maharashtrian

Ingredients:

2 cups beaten rice flakes - thick variety (jaada poha)
2 tablespoons oil

1 teaspoon(s) mustard seeds
1 1/2 teaspoon(s) cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon dhania seeds ( whole)
1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1/2 teaspoon aniseeds/fennel seeds
pinch of hing (asafoetida)
½ teaspoon(s) turmeric powder

1-2 green chilli(es) slit or chopped fine
1 sprig curry leaves

1 tablespoon crushed ginger-garlic
1 big onion sliced fine
1 big tomato chopped

100 gms canned corn, washed and drained (optional)
150 gms canned mushrooms, washed and drained(optional)

salt to taste
chopped fresh coriander to garnish (optional)

Method:

1. Wash the beaten rice in cold water thoroughly. Drain and Keep aside.
2. Heat the oil in a pan. Toss in the mustard seeds, just as they begin to crackle add the rest of the seeds (cumin, dhania, fennel, fenugreek) . Stir a few seconds. Add the green chillies and curry leaves. Add the crushed ginger-garlic, let it fry for a minute untill the strong smell leaves. Then add the onions and turmeric powder. Stir-fry on medium / low level for about 4 minutes or till the onions are pinkish. Add the chopped fresh coriander and stir-fry briefly till they wilt.
3. Add the corn and mushrooms, fry for 2 minutes. Add in the chopped tomatoes, stir fry for 2 minutes.
   
4. Mix in the beaten rice and salt to taste. Mix in a few tablespoons of water into the beaten rice, if necessary. Cover and cook on low level for about 4 minutes or till the water has been absorbed by the beaten rice softening it and the flavors are well blended. Do not overcook the beaten rice as it tends to harden. keep covered for a few minutes before serving.