Phova Chutney/Phova Upkari ( Beaten Rice mixed with coriander-cumin flavored freshly grated coconut).

This is a very traditional Mangalorean GSB breakfast dish that is usually accompanied by Chana upkari ( Chick pea stir-fry) or Chano ani kanang upkari( Chick pea with sweet potato stir-fry). It could also be served with any kind of bean/ sprouted bean stir-fry.

It is filling, nutritious and yummy. It is a perfect combination of carbohydrates and proteins. This dish is sometimes served with a banana. A smaller serving  can also be served as a snack with the evening tea. It is again one of my favorites. I have a lot of childhood memories associated with it. It is quick, simple and easy to make.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

Beaten rice: 4 cups
Freshly grated coconut: 1 cup
Green chillies: 2
Coriander seeds: 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds: 1/2 tbsp
Salt : to taste
Sugar: 1 tbsp

For tempering:
Coconut oil : 1 tsp
Mustard seeds: 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves: 1 sprig

Method:

Coarsely grind together coriander seeds, cumin seeds, green chillies, salt and sugar.

Take this mixture in a bowl with the freshly grated coconut. 

 Mix it well.

Now mix in the beaten rice with the ground mixture.

Mix well massaging it with your hand until the beaten rice is soft and well-mixed.

Tempering:

In a small frying pan, heat coconut oil, add mustard seeds. Once the mustard seeds splutter, add the curry leaves. Turn of the flame. Add this to the above bowl.

Serve with Chana upkari / muga ussli or a ripe banana.

Cooking made easy:

People often complain that their Phova chutney is hard. One of the tricks for soft Phova chutney is to make sure you use adequate amount of freshly grated coconut. The other trick ( especially if you don't have enough coconut) is to grind a little bit of coconut with a little water added to it.This extra water content helps soften the beaten rice and make it soft to eat.

Tip for healthy living:

You can clean your dish-washing scrub by soaking it in a solution of vinegar and water overnight and rinsing it off the next day.

Food for thought:

Temptation is a woman's weapon and man's excuse. H.L. Mencken