Puran Poli

Puran Poli is a traditional Indian sweet flatbread that holds a special place in various festive celebrations across the country. Originating from Maharashtra, it is a quintessential delicacy during festivals like Holi, Diwali, and Ganesh Chaturthi. This delectable treat is essentially a sweet paratha filled with a mixture called 'puran', made of split chana dal and jaggery. Known by various names in different regions such as bobbatlu in Andhra Pradesh, obbattu in Karnataka, and boli in Tamil Nadu, it embraces the diverse culinary cultures of India.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup of wheat flour
• 1 pinch of salt
• 3 tablespoons of oil
• 1/4 cup of water (as needed)

For the Filling

• 1 cup of chana dal
• 1 cup of jaggery
• 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
• 1 pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Making the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and wheat flour together. Add a pinch of salt and 3 tablespoons of oil. Begin kneading by adding water a little at a time until you get a soft but firm dough. Knead it for at least 10 minutes to ensure it's smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

Wash the chana dal thoroughly, then soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water and cook in a pressure cooker with 2 cups of water for about 4 whistles or until soft. Once cooked, drain the dal completely to remove excess water and let it cool. In a separate pan, add the cooked chana dal and jaggery. Stir continuously on medium heat until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. Add the cardamom powder and a pinch of saffron strands. Allow this puran mixture to cool.

Step 3: Assembling Puran Poli

Divide the dough and puran filling into equal-sized balls. Roll out a dough ball into a small circle. Place the puran filling in the center, bring the edges together to cover the filling, and flatten it slightly. Dust with flour and gently roll out the dough-filled puran into a thin disc.

Cooking Process

Heat a tawa or griddle on medium flame and transfer the rolled Puran Poli onto it. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown spots appear. Apply a little oil or ghee and cook for a few more seconds. Remove from the pan and place on a serving plate. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Serving Suggestions & Enjoyment

Traditionally, Puran Poli is served hot with a dollop of ghee or sometimes even with milk. It pairs wonderfully with raita, sabzis, or as is for a sweet indulgence. Relish the aromatic, sweet flavor with a hint of saffron and the wholesome filling made from protein-rich chana dal which is complemented by the earthy sweetness of jaggery.