The vibrant festival of Ganesh Utsav is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm, especially in Maharashtra. This festive occasion marks the birth of Lord Ganesh and is observed over a span of ten days filled with cultural and religious activities. Streets are adorned with colorful decorations and grand processions, while devotees bring the festival to life by offering various delicious dishes to Lord Ganpati each day. One of the most cherished offerings during this time is the traditional dish of Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Why Offer Puran Poli to Ganpati Ji?
Puran Poli is not just a delightful treat; it’s a symbol of devotion and a way to connect with the traditions of the festival. Made with a stuffing of sweetened lentils, it represents the sweetness of life and the joy of togetherness. Offering Puran Poli to Ganpati Ji is a way for devotees to express their love and gratitude, as this sweet dish is often prepared with care in one’s own kitchen, contributing to the festive spirit of the occasion.
Ingredients to Prepare Traditional Puran Poli
To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- For the stuffing:
- 1 cup chana dal (soaked in water for at least 1-2 hours)
- ยฝ cup jaggery (adjust to taste)
- ยฝ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1-2 pinches of nutmeg powder
- For the dough:
- 2 cups wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons desi ghee (for kneading and cooking)
- Water (as needed to knead the dough)
Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Puran Poli
1. Prepare the Stuffing
Start by boiling the soaked chana dal in a deep pan with enough water to cover the lentils. Cook until the dal becomes soft, and then drain any excess water. In the same pan, add jaggery and cook on low heat, stirring continuously until it melts and combines well with the dal. Once the mixture thickens and water evaporates, add cardamom and nutmeg powder. Mix thoroughly and let it cool.
2. Make the Dough
In a separate bowl, combine the wheat flour with a pinch of salt and add a little desi ghee. Gradually add water and knead it into a smooth and pliable dough. Allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes, covered with a damp cloth to keep it moist.
3. Shape and Cook the Puran Poli
Divide the dough into small balls. Take one dough ball, flatten it into a small disc, and place a generous amount of the cool stuffing in the center. Carefully bring the edges together to enclose the filling and roll it gently into a flat circle resembling a paratha. Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium flame, add a little desi ghee, and fry the Puran Poli until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and stuffing.
Serving Your Puran Poli
Once done, serve the warm Puran Poli on a plate, drizzling some extra desi ghee on top for that rich flavor. You can present it to Lord Ganpati Ji with love and gratitude, as a delightful offering for the festival.
Final Thoughts
Puran Poli is more than just a dish; it’s a heartfelt offering that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Maharashtra. Preparing this dish at home during Ganesh Utsav not only brings families together but also deepens the spiritual connection to the festival. So, this Ganesh Utsav, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create this wonderful sweet treat that embodies the very essence of celebration and devotion.
