Gudi Padwa: Try this traditional and healthier version of Puran Poli

Ready to add a touch of sweetness to your Gudi Padwa celebrations? Look no further than puran poli, the Maharashtrian delicacy that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! But wait, what if you want to indulge in this delicious treat without feeling guilty? Don’t worry, we have a healthier version for you that doesn’t skimp on the flavor. So put on your apron and get ready to learn how to make Puran Poli for Gudi Padwa, in a traditional and healthier way!

Try this healthier version of Puran Poli by Gudi Padwa

Puran poli is a traditional Maharashtrian dish that is commonly prepared on festivals and special occasions such as Gudi Padwa. This sweet flatbread is made by filling a mixture of jaggery and cooked chana dal (Bengal gram) between two layers of wheat flour dough and then flattening it to form a round disc. While the traditional recipe calls for the use of ghee and refined sugar, a healthier version can be made using healthier ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

puran poli with jaagery
Puran poli is none other than gur paratha! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

How to make Puran Poli?

Here is a step-by-step recipe for making Puran Poli for Gudi Padwa and his healthier version:

Ingredients for Puran Poli:

For the dough:

*1 cup whole wheat flour
*1/4 teaspoon salt
*1 tablespoon of oil
*Water, as needed

For the filling:

*1 cup Chana Dal (Bengali Gram)
*1 cup jaggery, grated
*1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
*1 tablespoon of ghee

Recipe:

1. Rinse the chana dal thoroughly and soak in water for 3-4 hours.

Chana Dal
Chana dal makes puran poli a healthy delicacy! Image courtesy: Unsplash

2. Drain the water and pressure cook the chana dal with 2 cups of water for 3-4 whistles or until tender and cooked through.

3. Strain off excess water and mash the cooked chana dal with a potato masher or food processor until smooth.

4. Add grated jaggery and cardamom powder to the pureed chana dal and mix well.

5. Heat a bread and add the ghee. Add the chana dal and jaggery mixture to the pan and cook over medium-high heat until the mixture thickens and forms a lump.

6. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before preparing the Puran Poli.

7. For the dough, mix together the wholemeal flour, salt and oil in a bowl.

8. Gradually add water and knead the dough until smooth and supple.

9. Divide the dough into small portions and roll into small balls.

10. Take a ball of dough and roll it out into a small circle. Place a portion of the chana dal and jaggery mixture in the center. Similar to how you would make a stuffed paratha.

11. Bring the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling and gently roll into a circle.

12. Heat tawa and fry puran poli on both sides until golden brown.

13. Serve hot with a dollop of ghee.

For the healthier version of Puran Poli, you can use the following substitutes:

*Whole wheat flour can be substituted with a mixture of whole wheat flour and jowar (sorghum) flour or bajra (pearl millet) flour for added nutritional value.

bajra
Make your Puran Poli healthier with Bajra! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

*Jaggery can be substituted with coconut sugar, which is a healthier alternative to refined sugar.

*Ghee can be substituted with coconut oil or olive oil to make it a vegan version.

Also Read: For More Maharastrian Recipes.

By following this recipe and using healthier substitutes, you can enjoy the traditional Puran Poli during Gudi Padwa without compromising on taste and nutritional value. Have fun cooking and Happy Gudi Padwa!