Puran Poli, a beloved sweet flatbread hailing from Maharashtra, India, is a culinary delight that perfectly blends the soft texture of a roti with the rich sweetness of a delicious filling. This traditional treat, often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, features a vibrant, subtly spiced lentil filling encased within a delicate, flaky flatbread. The contrasting textures and flavors create a truly unforgettable eating experience, a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. Its preparation, while seemingly intricate, is surprisingly accessible to home cooks of all levels.
The fragrant aroma of simmering lentils and the satisfying process of rolling and cooking the puran poli are experiences in themselves. This recipe breaks down the steps into easy-to-follow instructions, guiding you from preparing the vibrant lentil filling to achieving perfectly golden-brown, soft puran polis. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own batch of these delightful treats? Let's begin with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pressure cooker
- Pan
- Rolling pin
Ingredients
- Chana Dal
- Jaggery
- Cardamom seeds
- Wheat flour
- Salt
- Ghee
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chana Dal Filling
- Soak chana dal overnight. Wash thoroughly and cook in a pressure cooker with about half to one glass of water for 3-4 whistles.
- While the chana dal cooks, finely chop the jaggery and grind the cardamom seeds.
- Once the chana dal is cooked and has absorbed all the water, heat ghee in a pan. Add the cooked chana dal and stir well over low heat.
- Add cardamom powder and then gradually add the chopped jaggery, stirring continuously until the mixture is completely dry and the jaggery has melted.
- Set the chana dal stuffing aside to cool for half an hour.
Step 2. Make the Dough
- Mix wheat flour, salt, and a little water to make a dough. Let the dough rest.
Step 3. Assemble and Shape the Puran Poli
- Once the stuffing is cool, make small balls of dough and roll them into circles. Place a spoonful of stuffing in the center of each circle.
- Pleat the edges of the dough and seal the stuffing inside. Gently roll the stuffed dough into a thin circle.
Step 4. Cook the Puran Poli
- Cook the puran poli on a hot griddle or tava, using ghee, until golden brown on both sides.
Read more: Easy Indian Bread Pudding Recipe: A Simple Dessert
Tips
- Cook the jaggery mixture patiently on low heat to avoid burning. It may take 7-10 minutes.
- Using ghee enhances the taste and flavour of Puran Poli.
- Puran Poli can be enjoyed with various accompaniments such as curd or gravy.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make the puran filling ahead of time?
Yes! The puran filling can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble and cook the puran polis.
2. What if my puran polis are sticking to the pan?
Make sure your pan is well-oiled before cooking each poli. Also, ensure the dough isn't too wet; adjust the consistency with a little more flour if needed.
3. How do I store leftover puran polis?
Store leftover puran polis in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat them in a pan or microwave.
With a little practice, making these delicious Puran Polis will become second nature. Enjoy the satisfying process and the even more satisfying taste of this traditional Maharashtrian treat. Share your homemade Puran Polis with loved ones and savor the sweet rewards of your culinary efforts!