Hare Krishna

With Holi and Gaura Purnima around the corner, one can only think of 'Puran Poli'.
This traditional sweet is specially made on the day of Holi Purnima, when Krishna plays with colors with the Vrajavasis. I could not find it in the Prasadam Laboratory , although the lab has savory versions - like Besan Roti (Chick Pea Flour Bread)

SWEET BREAD WITH CHICK PEA FLOUR
Traditional name : Puran Poli

Ingredients

1 cup chick-pea flour
3/4 cup grated jaggery OR brown sugar OR sugar
1 cup sifted whole wheat flour OR a combination of whole
wheat and all purpose refined flour 1:1
1 t ground cardammom
1/2 t ground nutmeg (powder)
1/2 t salt
1/4 cup oil
1/4 cup warm water, or as needed
rice flour for dusting
ghee or melted butter for garnish

METHOD

1. Lightly roast the chick pea flour in a pan on medium heat till darker or pinkish only. Remove from heat. Add the jaggery or sugar ingredient and mix. Add cardammom and nutmeg.

2. In a large bowl combine the salt and wheat flour(s). Add the roasted chick-pea mixture and mix. Add oil. Add warm water very gradually , to make a smooth but firm dough. Pat and knead the dough for a few minutes.

3. Make small round balls of the dough - 2 inches in diameter.

4. Heat a roasting pan (medium heat). Dust each ball with the rice flour, flatten and roll out lightly into a disc using a flat board and rolling pin. Carefully scoop the rolled Poli using a flat spatula and roast in the pan. Cook each side for 30 seconds , flipping every time with the spatula, repeat, till the flour looks cooked. Spread some ghee or melted butter on top.

Offer to Krishna ... and Gauranga !

(Makes about 20)

Krishnali

P.S. This is a simpler version. The traditional way is to stuff the wheat flour dough with the chick pea mixture for each ball and then roll it out. This can get tricky, but the more adventurous can try it. Also, you may want to vary the sweetness as per your taste.