Milagu Aval / Pepper Poha

Event: Blogging Marathon #42
Theme: Festival Special ~ Sri Krishnashtami

Poha / Beaten rice flakes is said to be a favorite of Bhagavan Sri Krishna and it is reiterated in the Sudhama story. Sudhama, a childhood friend of Krishna faces adverse conditions later on in his life and upon his wife's advice, decides to visit Krishna in the hope of receiving some help. As they could not afford anything to gift Krishna because of their poverty, his wife packs him a small quantity of poha. However after meeting his friend in Dwaraka and seeing his riches, Sudhama feels embarrassed to present his humble gift. However as nothing can be hidden from Lord Krishna, he himself asks about the gift and enjoys the simple poha. It is mentioned that though Sudhama forgets to ask for the help, Krishna provides riches and comforts to his friend's family. 
And so a savory or a sweet poha dish is usually prepared on the Krishnashtami day. I was looking for a poha dish that I hadn't tried before and came across this spicy, pepper poha. The versions I saw on the web are almost on the similar lines and this is a very quick dish to put together. A simple dish with the hints of pepper and curry leaves' flavors. I have added coconut to tone down the spiciness from the peppercorns.

Ingredients: (2 servings)
2 cups thick poha
3/4 to 1 tsp peppercorns
1 tsp cumin seeds
15 - 20 curry leaves
1 to 2 tbsp oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp / split, skinned black gram / urad dal
1 tbsp cashews / peanuts
1/4 cup shredded, fresh coconut (Optional but recommended.)
Salt to taste

Method:
* Wash the poha in a colander, drain completely and leave aside the poha for about 5 minutes.
*  Dry grind peppercorns, cumin and curry leaves coarsely in a grinder.
* Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, urad dal and cashews. 
* Toast until mustard starts to pop and cashews turn golden brown. 
* Next add the ground pepper mixture and saute for a few seconds. Then add the poha, coconut and salt. Mix well to combine, cover and cook for about 3 - 4 minutes. 
* Turn off the stove and serve warm.

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