Puran Poli Recipe: Traditional Indian Sweet Flatbread

By Kaushik Brahmakshatriya
Published on 01 July 2026.
Puran Poli recipe
Introduction
Puran Poli is a beloved Indian sweet flatbread made by stuffing a soft wheat dough with a sweetened lentil filling. Popular across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka, this dish is a festival favorite during Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Diwali. The filling, called “puran,” is made from cooked chana dal (split Bengal gram) and jaggery, flavored with cardamom and nutmeg. Serve it warm with a dollop of ghee for an authentic experience.
Ingredients Table
| For the Dough | Quantity |
| Whole wheat flour | 2 cups |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | A pinch |
| For the Puran (Filling) | Quantity |
| Chana dal | 1 cup |
| Jaggery, grated | 1 cup |
| Cardamom powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Nutmeg powder | A pinch |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Method
1. Prepare the dough:
Mix flour, turmeric, salt, and oil. Add water gradually to form a soft, pliable dough. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the chana dal:
Pressure cook chana dal with enough water until soft, about 3-4 whistles. Drain excess water completely (this can be saved for kadhi).
3. Make the puran:
In a pan, combine cooked dal and jaggery. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. Add cardamom and nutmeg powder. Let it cool, then grind into a smooth paste.
4. Stuff the poli:
Take a small ball of dough, flatten it, and place a larger ball of puran filling inside. Seal the edges and gently flatten with your palms.
5. Roll and cook:
Dust with flour and roll gently into a flatbread, being careful not to let the filling burst out. Cook on a hot tawa with ghee on both sides until golden brown spots appear.6. Serve: Serve hot with a generous drizzle of ghee, alongside katachi amti or plain milk.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Tips for Perfect Puran Poli
- Ensure the puran filling is completely dry to avoid a soggy or leaking poli.
- Rest the dough well for easier rolling.
- Roll on a plastic sheet or banana leaf if the dough sticks.
- Use fresh jaggery for a richer color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can I make Puran Poli without jaggery?
Yes, you can substitute jaggery with sugar, though jaggery gives a more traditional flavor and color.
Q2. Why does my puran poli tear while rolling?
This usually happens when the filling is too wet or the dough-to-filling ratio is off. Ensure the puran is dry and use enough dough to cover it.
Q3. Can I store Puran Poli filling in advance?
Yes, the puran filling can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and used when needed.
Q4. What is the best way to reheat Puran Poli?
Reheat on a tawa with a little ghee for a few seconds on each side to restore softness.
Q5. Is Puran Poli healthy?
Made with chana dal and whole wheat flour, it offers protein and fiber, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to jaggery content.