Introduction:
Puran Poli is a traditional Maharashtrian sweet flatbread that is made with a filling of sweetened lentils (purnam) encased in a soft, melt-in-your-mouth dough. This beloved delicacy is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, and its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among people of all ages. In this article, we will explore the world of Puran Poli, including its origins, a step-by-step recipe to make it at home, and answers to some frequently asked questions to help you master this delightful sweet.
Puran Poli:
An Exquisite Maharashtrian Delicacy Puran
Poli holds a special place in the culinary traditions of Maharashtra. It is a
combination of two key elements: puran (sweet lentil filling) and poli (thin
flatbread). The puran is made by cooking chana dal (split Bengal gram) with
jaggery, ghee, and aromatic spices until it forms a thick, sweet mixture. This
flavorful puran is then wrapped in a dough made with flour, ghee, and water,
which is rolled out into thin circles and cooked on a griddle until golden
brown. The result is a delectable flatbread with a sweet, indulgent filling
that is simply irresistible.
Puran Poli Recipe: Unleashing the Sweetness
Ingredients: For the dough:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- A pinch of salt
- Water, as needed
For the puran:
- 1 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram)
- 1 cup jaggery, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee
Method:
1.
Rinse the
chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for about 1 hour.
2.
Drain the
soaked dal and cook it in a pressure cooker with enough water until it becomes
soft and mushy.
3.
Drain any
excess water and transfer the cooked dal to a pan. Add jaggery, cardamom
powder, nutmeg powder, and ghee.
4.
Cook the
mixture on medium heat, stirring continuously, until the jaggery melts and the
mixture thickens. This process usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
5.
Remove the
pan from heat and let the puran cool slightly. Once cooled, blend the mixture
using a blender or a hand blender until it becomes smooth and uniform.
6.
Divide the
dough into equal-sized balls and the puran into slightly smaller balls.
7.
Take a
dough ball, flatten it slightly, and place a puran ball in the center. Enclose
the puran completely by bringing the edges of the dough together and sealing
it.
8.
Roll out
the filled dough ball into a circle using a rolling pin and some flour for
dusting.
9.
Heat a
griddle or a tawa on medium heat and cook the rolled puran poli on both sides
until golden brown, brushing ghee on each side.
10.
Repeat the
process with the remaining dough and puran balls.
11.
Serve the
Puran Poli warm with a drizzle of ghee and enjoy its delightful flavors.
FAQs about Puran Poli:
Q: Can I use other lentils instead of chana dal?
A: Chana
dal is the traditional choice for making Puran Poli, but you can experiment
with other lentils like toor dal or moong dal to create different variations of
the dish.
Q: Can I make Puran Poli without a pressure cooker?
A:
Yes, you can cook the dal in a regular pot, but it will take longer. Cook the
soaked dal in a pot with sufficient water until soft and mushy.
Q: Can I make Puran Poli ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can
make Puran Poli in advance and store it in an airtight container. Reheat it
before serving or enjoy it at room temperature.
Q: Can I freeze Puran Poli?
A: Yes, you can freeze Puran
Poli by placing them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between
each Poli to prevent sticking. Thaw and reheat as needed.
In Conclusion:
Savor the Sweetness of Puran Poli Puran
Poli is a delightful Maharashtrian sweet treat that captivates taste buds with
its heavenly combination of sweet lentil filling and soft, flavorful dough.
With its rich flavors and comforting texture, Puran Poli is an irresistible
dessert that is cherished during festive occasions and celebrations. By
following the provided recipe and exploring the answers to frequently asked
questions, you can master the art of making Puran Poli and share its delightful
sweetness with family and friends. So, indulge in this traditional delicacy and
experience the joy it brings with every bite.