(No) Labor Day Breakfast

I am all for relaxed, weekend brunches that involve a long, decadent meal (and some slogging over the stove) but when you get three days off in a row like this one, I inevitably turn towards easier, faster options after the fancy fare. No 'laboring' for me, thank you :-)

This is the savoury version of gulpohe. You can either make the cumin coriander powder fresh in a mortar and pestle or use readymade powders (if you are making breakfast in 7 minutes, you might as well make it in 5!).
Remember to be slightly heavy handed with the coconut and oil, it helps the poha soak all the flavors.

KALAILE PHOV (Spicy Mixed Poha)
(serves 2)
1 cup thin poha
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup coconut, grated
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp red chilli powder
1/2 to 1 tsp cumin-coriander powder
salt and jaggery to taste
Seasoning -
2 tbsp oil
1/4 tsp mustard seeds
6-8 curry leaves
Garnishing -
3 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped

Combine poha, coconut and onion in a plate. Sprinkle a few drop of water over poha (coconut water would be great). Season to taste and keep aside. In a large bowl mix spices.

Heat oil in a tadka pan and add mustard seeds. When they pop add curry leaves and saute on moderate heat till they turn crisp. Let cool slightly then add to spices. Mix well.

Next add poha and combine everything with your hands until evenly coated. If the mixture seems dry sprinkle some water to soften it. Top with cilantro, cover and set aside for 8-10 minutes. Serve with sev if you prefer.

* You can also add lemon juice to taste and some roasted peanuts for a crunch
* An even easier alternative is to use this (or any other mild) sambar powder instead of all the other spices