Sabudana Poha Recipe: A Maharashtrian Classic with My Twist 

Last updated on November 10, 2025

There are some days when you want to start your morning with something light, comforting, and wholesome at the same time. This type of meal is more like a warm hug as you kickstart your day. That’s exactly what this quick Sabudana Poha (or Khichdi) recipe delivers. This dish is nutty, soft, and mildly spiced with beautiful texture balance, from tender sago pearls (or sabudana) to the crunchy roasted peanuts.

I first had this Maharashtrian delight during my family trip to Pune. What fascinated me about this simple roadside eatery is its minimalist preparation and how it’s served with fresh coriander and lemon on top. Such an instant burst of freshness in every bite makes it a great breakfast indulgence. Since then, I’ve come to enjoy preparing it whenever I’m craving something filling yet light on the stomach.  However, one thing that I want to mention is that it has low-fat content and high carbohydrate content. This makes it a good source of energy, but not really apt for a Keto diet.

For those following a Keto or low-carb diet, like me, I suggest preparing it with a twist. For my keto-influenced version, I replace sabudana with grated cauliflower pearls or grated zucchini to achieve a similar chewy texture with a mild flavor. After all, it’s about recreating the same comforting meal while keeping my Keto diet goals in check.

Now, let’s get into the recipe I’ll share both sabudana and my Keto-inspired version. So, you may pick whatever suits your dietary requirements.

Preparation Time
10 minutes

Cooking Time
15 minutes

Soaking Time for Sabudana
8 hours

Total Time
8 hours 25 minutes (for sabudana)

25 minutes for Keto version

Servings
2 people

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups Sabudana (or Sago Pearls) or Cauliflower Pearls or Grated Zucchini
• 1 Potato Cut in cubes
• ½ tsp Cumin Seeds or Jeera
• 1½ cups Water
• 2 tbsp Refined Sunflower Oil
• Salt to Taste
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• ½ tsp Sweetener
• 2 tbsp Freshly Chopped Coriander Leaves
• 2 tbsp Roasted Peanuts Optional
• 1 Green Chili Finely Chopped

Instructions:

1. Soak Sabudana in water overnight or for around 4-5 hours. If you’re using cauliflower pearls or grated zucchini, there’s no need for overnight soaking.
2. Place a non-stick pan over a medium flame and heat oil in it. Once oil is hot, temper it with cumin seeds.
3. Add potato cubes and further fry them on medium heat until they soften in the center. Further, season them with sugar and salt.
4. Once the potato is cooked properly, add soaked sabudana (for Keto version: add cauliflower pearls or grated zucchini) and cook them further for a few minutes on medium-high flame.
5. Add roasted peanuts and chopped green chilies into the mixture and stir gently. Keep stirring to avoid sticking to the pan’s bottom.
6. Check for seasoning and adjust as per your preference, if needed. Turn off the flame.
7. Add freshly chopped coriander leaves and fresh lemon juice on top before serving.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Keto Version):

Calories
180 kcal

Carbohydrates
8g

Protein
6g

Fat
14g

This light, gluten-free, and energy-boosting Sabudana Poha is perfect for busy mornings, as well as fasting days when you require something easy to digest yet wholesome. Give it a try, and don’t forget tagging me on Facebook or Instagram with your creations. I’d love to see both your classic and Keto versions.

For those looking for more such lightweight and healthy Keto breakfast ideas, try my other recipes, like Keto Uttapam and Creamy Broccoli Lemon & Parmesan Soup.

Here’s to mornings that start light, delicious, and just right!