Puran Bites

Puran Bites are a delightful and traditional Indian sweet that is most commonly associated with the festivals of Holi and Diwali. These sweet delicacies are derived from the classic Maharashtrian dish, Puran Poli, which is a soft, sweetened bread filled with a rich, spiced lentil mixture. Puran Bites streamline this beloved classic into convenient, bite-sized portions, making them perfect for modern culinary settings.

History of Puran Bites

The origin of Puran Bites can be traced back to the western states of India, particularly Maharashtra, where the traditional Puran Poli is a celebratory staple. Over the years, as cooking techniques and consumer needs evolved, traditional recipes like Puran Poli were adapted to make them easier to serve and consume. Thus, Puran Bites emerged as a popular alternative, providing the same taste and cultural connection in a more accessible form.

Ingredients

• Chana Dal - 1 cup
• Jaggery - 1 cup, grated
• Cardamom - 1 teaspoon, ground
• Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon, grated
• All-purpose Flour - 1 cup
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric Powder - a pinch
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Water - as needed

Preparation

Preparing the Puran (Filling)

1. Rinse Chana Dal thoroughly under cold water. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Drain the Chana Dal and transfer it to a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the dal.
3. Add a pinch of Turmeric Powder for color and flavor.
4. Pressure cook the Chana Dal for about 4-5 whistles until it becomes soft and mushy.
5. Once cooked, drain excess water and set aside. The dal should be dry.
6. In a deep pan, add the cooked Chana Dal and Jaggery. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the Jaggery merges with the dal, and the mixture thickens.
7. Add Cardamom and Nutmeg to the mixture. Stir well and set aside to cool.

Preparing the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine All-purpose Flour, a pinch of salt, and a bit of Ghee.
2. Knead this into a soft dough by adding water little by little. The dough should be pliable and smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Cooking Process

1. Divide the dough into small portions and the puran (filling) into slightly larger portions.
2. Take a dough portion and flatten it using your fingers.
3. Place a portion of the puran mixture at the center of the flattened dough.
4. Gather the edges of the dough and bring them together over the filling, completely sealing it.
5. Gently roll this into a ball and flatten it slightly using a rolling pin, making sure the puran does not leak out.
6. Heat a tawa or non-stick pan on medium heat and brush it lightly with Ghee.
7. Place the rolled puran bite on the heated pan. Cook on each side until golden brown, applying Ghee as needed.
8. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside. Repeat for the remaining dough and filling.

Serving and Enjoying Puran Bites

Puran Bites can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for a few days and served as a sweet treat anytime. Traditionally, they are enjoyed with a side of Ghee or warm milk. These bites also pair well with tea or as a dessert following a light meal. With their rich flavor and portable size, Puran Bites are perfect for festivals, gatherings, or simply as a delightful everyday snack.