How to Enjoy Chira in the Most Delicious Way.
Chira, or flattened rice, is a beloved staple in South Asian cuisine. It’s not only versatile and easy to prepare but also packs a nutritious punch. From savory to sweet, here are some delightful ways to prepare chira to make it a treat for your taste buds.
- Chira with Yogurt and Fruits
A refreshing and light option, chira with yogurt and fruits is perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
1 cup of chira (flattened rice)
1/2 cup yogurt (Greek yogurt or regular)
Fresh fruits (banana, mango, or berries)
Honey or sugar to taste
Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.) for crunch
Instructions:
- Soak the chira in water for a few minutes until it softens, then drain.
- Mix the softened chira with yogurt.
- Add your choice of fruits and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
- Top with nuts for an added crunch.
This dish is nutritious, with protein from yogurt and fiber from fruits and chira.
- Spicy Chira Poha
This savory, spiced chira dish is inspired by poha, a popular Indian breakfast.
Ingredients:
1 cup chira
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 cup chopped onions
1 green chili, chopped
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Curry leaves (optional)
Lemon juice
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Roasted peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the chira in water and let it soften for a few minutes. Drain well.
- In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. When they splutter, add chopped onions and cook until golden.
- Add green chili, turmeric, and salt.
- Mix in the softened chira and cook on low heat, stirring for a few minutes.
- Add lemon juice, garnish with coriander, and roasted peanuts if you like.
This version of chira is flavorful, with a delightful combination of spices and textures.
- Chira with Warm Milk and Jaggery
If you’re craving something comforting and mildly sweet, try chira with milk and jaggery.
Ingredients:
1 cup chira
1 cup warm milk
1-2 tablespoons jaggery or sugar
A pinch of cardamom powder
Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse and soften the chira in water, then drain.
- Heat milk and add jaggery or sugar until it dissolves.
- Pour the warm milk over the softened chira, and sprinkle cardamom powder on top.
- Garnish with chopped nuts if you prefer.
This is a traditional way to enjoy chira, with the warmth of milk and sweetness of jaggery making it a comforting, wholesome option.
- Chira Puli Pitha (Flattened Rice Dumplings)
For a festive treat, you can make chira puli pitha, a traditional Bengali dessert made from chira, coconut, and jaggery.