Puran Poli Recipe: A Delicious Indian Sweet Flatbread

Step-by-Step Preparation of Puran Poli

Step 1: Prepare the Puran (Filling)

1. Cook the Chana Dal:

   • Wash the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
   • After soaking, drain the water and pressure cook the dal with just enough water to cover it (about 1 to 1.5 cups) for 3-4 whistles or until soft and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook it, as the dal should retain some texture and not turn mushy.

2. Mash the Chana Dal:

   • Once the dal is cooked, drain any excess water and transfer it to a pan. Use a potato masher to mash the dal until it’s smooth and there are no whole pieces remaining.

3. Make the Sweet Filling:

   • In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee and add the mashed chana dal. Stir it for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
   • Add the grated jaggery (or sugar) to the dal and cook the mixture while stirring continuously. The jaggery will melt and combine with the dal, forming a thick, sticky consistency. Cook it until the mixture thickens and begins to come off the sides of the pan.
   • Add cardamom powder, nutmeg powder (optional), and saffron strands. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is evenly incorporated.
   • Once the filling has thickened and becomes dough-like, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour (if using), and a pinch of salt.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil and rub it into the flour mixture to create a crumbly texture.

2. Make the Dough:

   • Gradually add water to the flour mixture and knead to form a smooth, soft dough. The dough should not be too sticky, but also not too stiff. It should be pliable and smooth to the touch.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Resting helps the dough become soft and easier to roll.

Step 3: Stuff the Puran Poli

1. Divide the Dough and Filling:
   • Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Similarly, divide the Puran (sweet filling) into equal-sized portions, matching the number of dough balls.
2. Stuff the Puran into the Dough:
   • Take a dough ball and flatten it slightly into a small disc using your fingers or a rolling pin.
   • Place the prepared Puran filling in the center of the dough disc and carefully fold the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching them together to seal the filling inside.
   • Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball into a thick disc with your fingers. Be careful not to let the filling ooze out.

Step 4: Roll and Cook the Puran Poli

1. Roll Out the Puran Poli:

   • On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the stuffed dough ball into a thin, even circle (about 6-8 inches in diameter). Be gentle while rolling to avoid the filling spilling out.
   • If the dough is sticking, dust it lightly with more flour.

2. Cook the Puran Poli:

   • Heat a tawa (griddle) or a non-stick pan on medium heat.
   • Once hot, place the rolled-out Puran Poli on the tawa and cook for 1-2 minutes until small bubbles start to form on the surface.
   • Flip the Puran Poli and cook on the other side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. When both sides are golden and slightly crispy, apply a little ghee or oil on both sides and cook until they’re beautifully golden brown.

Step 5: Serve the Puran Poli

• Once cooked, remove the Puran Poli from the tawa and serve it hot with a dollop of ghee on top. Puran Poli can be served with yogurt, milk, or even a side of shrikhand (sweetened yogurt) for an extra indulgent treat.