Balaghat, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a diverse and traditional cuisine. One such special dish is Puran Poli, a festive sweet flatbread that holds a special place in the culinary traditions of the Marathi and Marathi-Malvi communities in Balaghat. This dish is especially prepared during Gudi Padwa, Holi, Makar Sankranti, and other auspicious occasions, adding sweetness to celebrations.
Traditional Recipe of Puran Poli
Ingredients: (For 8-10 Puran Polis)
🔹 For the Filling (Puran):
- 1 cup chana dal (easily available in local markets of Balaghat)
- 1 cup jaggery (organic jaggery is especially popular in rural areas)
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg powder (optional)
- A pinch of salt
🔹 For the Dough:
- 2 cups wheat flour (locally sourced)
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Water as required
🔹 Other Ingredients:
- Ghee (for roasting)
Method of Preparation:
✅ Preparing the Filling (Puran):
- Wash and soak the chana dal for 30 minutes.
- Cook it in a pressure cooker for 2-3 whistles until soft. Drain excess water.
- Mash the cooked dal well or blend it into a smooth paste.
- In a pan, melt the jaggery on low heat.
- Add the mashed dal and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens.
- Mix in the cardamom and nutmeg powder. Let it cool.
✅ Kneading the Dough:
- Mix wheat flour with oil and water to make a soft dough.
- Cover and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
✅ Making Puran Poli:
- Take a small portion of dough and roll it slightly.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center and seal it by folding the edges.
- Gently roll it into a round flatbread.
- Cook on a hot pan, applying ghee, until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with ghee.
Puran Poli and Its Significance in Balaghat
Balaghat shares a close cultural connection with Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, influencing its local cuisine. The Marathi community in Balaghat has preserved its traditional recipes, and Puran Poli remains an integral part of festive meals.
Festivals and Puran Poli:
- Gudi Padwa (Marathi New Year) – Puran Poli is a must-have delicacy on this auspicious day.
- Holi and Makar Sankranti – Served alongside sesame and jaggery-based sweets.
- Ganesh Chaturthi – Offered as prasad to Lord Ganesha.
In Balaghat, especially in Lalbarra, Katangi, and Waraseoni, families prepare this dish in a traditional way and serve it with generous amounts of ghee.