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Puran Poli - A sweet flatbread stuffed with a filling of jaggery and lentils, flavored with cardamom and nutmeg

Puran Poli is a traditional Indian sweet flatbread that hails from Maharashtra, often made during festivals like Holi and Ganesh Chaturthi. The dish consists of a soft, flaky dough filled with a sweet stuffing made from jaggery and lentils, typically chana dal (split Bengal gram). The combination of the sweet filling and the crisp, lightly browned exterior makes Puran Poli a beloved treat across various regions in India.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for extra softness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • Water, as needed to knead the dough
  • A pinch of salt

For the Filling (Puran):

  • 1 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram)
  • 1 cup grated jaggery
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder (optional)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour (if using), turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Add oil or ghee and mix well.
    • Gradually add water and knead into a soft, pliable dough. Cover and set aside for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Filling (Puran):

    • Rinse the chana dal thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with enough water until soft but not mushy (about 3 whistles). Drain any excess water and mash the dal slightly.
    • In a pan, melt the ghee and add the cooked chana dal. Stir in the grated jaggery and cook on low heat until the jaggery melts and combines with the dal to form a thick paste.
    • Add cardamom powder, nutmeg powder (if using), and a pinch of salt. Cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
  3. Assemble the Puran Poli:

    • Divide the dough into small, lemon-sized balls and the filling into slightly smaller portions.
    • Roll out a dough ball into a small circle. Place a portion of the filling in the center and fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it.
    • Gently roll out the filled dough ball into a thin, even circle, being careful not to tear the dough.
  4. Cook the Puran Poli:

    • Heat a griddle or tawa over medium heat. Place the rolled-out Puran Poli on the hot griddle.
    • Cook on one side until golden brown spots appear, then flip and cook the other side. Apply a little ghee on both sides while cooking.
    • Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
  5. Serve:

    • Serve Puran Poli warm with a drizzle of ghee on top. It pairs well with milk, yogurt, or as a standalone sweet treat.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Proteins: 5g
  • Carbs: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g

Tips:

  • Make sure the filling is smooth and free from lumps for easy rolling.
  • The dough should be soft but not too sticky, making it easier to roll out without tearing.
  • You can adjust the sweetness of the filling by varying the amount of jaggery according to your taste