It looks like you’re looking to make informed decisions regarding poha’s nutritional profile, so let’s get to it. Generally speaking, a typical serving of poha (about 100 grams dry weight) can end up with roughly 150-180 calories once cooked. The calories can vary slightly depending on cooking ingredients like oil, peanuts, and any added veggies. Each tablespoon of oil you use can add around 120 calories, and a small handful of peanuts may contribute another 50 calories. So yes, these additions will indeed influence the total calorie count.
Adding veggies is quite beneficial, as they provide fiber and essential nutrients with minimal additional calories. For instance, a small serving of chopped onions might add just about 10-15 calories, while lime juice is negligible in calorie content yet enhances flavor. Just remember, poha itself is relatively low on calories, and these modifications help keep the dish nutritious without significantly tipping a caloric overboard.
Regarding calorie absorption from oil, it’s worth noting that during cooking, not all oils are absorbed into the food; however, indeed, you should consider the amount you start with when assessing calorie intake. The cooking process doesn’t substantially alter calorie content.
From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, poha is light and easily digestible, supporting agni (digestive fire) without imbalancing doshas, especially if prepared without excessive oil or spices. Balance is key here, so portion control alongside diverse ingredients can help you savor poha while maintaining a balanced meal plan.



