Puran Poli Recipe | How to Make Puran Poli | Diabetes-Friendly Maharashtrian Dish
What does the name Puran Poli bring to your mind? For most of us, it instantly reminds us of festivals, happiness, and family gatherings. Puran Poli is deeply connected with Maharashtrian culture and is commonly prepared during Holi, Ganesh festival, Diwali, and other special occasions. Across India, this beloved dish is known by different names. In Gujarat, it is called Vedmi. In Telugu-speaking regions, it is known as Oligi or Holige. In Kerala, it is referred to as Payasabolli. No matter the name, the emotion remains the same.
Puran Poli is a traditional Indian sweet flatbread. It is made by stuffing a soft dough with a sweet filling prepared from chana dal and jaggery. The outer layer is usually made using refined or regular wheat flour, while the inner filling is rich and sweet. Because of this combination, Puran Poli is often considered heavy and indulgent.
One Puran Poli can provide nearly 291 calories, which places it in the high-calorie food category. This naturally raises an important question for people managing diabetes. Is Puran Poli good for diabetes?
Generally, foods that are high in calories and carbohydrates are not considered ideal for diabetes. However, the answer is not a complete no. When ingredients are chosen mindfully and portions are controlled, even festive foods can be enjoyed occasionally. The key lies in smart modification and moderation.
In this recipe, we are sharing a diabetes-friendly version of Puran Poli prepared in FFD’s special style. This version is designed to reduce sugar spikes while still keeping the taste enjoyable. Once you try this method, you may find yourself preparing it more often without guilt.
This diabetes-friendly Puran Poli stands out because of its carefully selected ingredients. Instead of using regular refined wheat flour, khapli wheat flour is used. Khapli wheat has a lower glycemic index and is easier on blood sugar levels. Instead of jaggery or sugar, black date paste is used to provide natural sweetness along with fiber. A small amount of stevia can be added if required. Saffron, cardamom, and nutmeg not only enhance flavor but also support digestion.
This recipe can be enjoyed as a main dish or snack and belongs to Indian cuisine. The total preparation time is around 45 to 50 minutes, and it serves two to three people comfortably.
To prepare the puran or stuffing, begin by washing and boiling the chana dal until it becomes soft but not mushy. Once cooked, drain the excess water completely and allow the dal to cool slightly. The dal is then coarsely ground to maintain some texture. Heat a pan and add the ground dal along with grated black date paste, saffron, green cardamom powder, and a pinch of nutmeg powder. Mix everything well and cook on low flame, stirring continuously. The mixture should slowly thicken and dry. At this stage, stevia drops can be added as per taste. The final mixture should resemble the consistency of a soft ball. Once ready, remove it from heat and allow it to cool. After cooling, divide the stuffing into equal portions and roll them into small balls.
For the dough, khapli wheat flour is mixed with a little oil and salt. Water is added gradually to form a soft and smooth dough. The dough is then covered with a damp cloth and allowed to rest for about one hour. This resting time helps in easy rolling later. After resting, the dough is divided into equal portions and rolled into small balls.
To assemble the Puran Poli, each dough ball is gently flattened on the palm. One portion of the puran stuffing is placed in the center, and the edges are carefully sealed. The stuffed ball is then gently rolled into a thin round poli of about six inches in diameter. Minimal dry flour can be used while rolling if required.
A heated tawa or pan is used to cook the Puran Poli. It is cooked on both sides until it turns evenly done. Once cooked, it is best served hot. This diabetes-friendly Puran Poli tastes delicious when paired with nut milk and a small amount of virgin coconut oil.
Puran Poli tastes best when freshly prepared and served hot. However, it can be stored in a cool, dry place for a few hours. If needed, it can be reheated gently before serving.
For people with diabetes, mindful eating plays a very important role. When food choices are thoughtful, managing blood sugar becomes easier and more sustainable. Modifying traditional recipes not only supports better health but also brings satisfaction and joy without feeling deprived.
So, if you love festive food and want a healthier option, try this FFD-style diabetes-friendly Puran Poli and enjoy it without stress. For more such innovative and modified diabetes-friendly recipes, do explore the FFD recipe section and make festive eating smarter and happier.
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