Pathare Prabhu Roath Recipe (Semolina Cake)
Introduction
Indulging in the flavors of traditional Maharashtrian cuisine, the Pathare Prabhu Roath, or Semolina Cake, is a delightful treat that embodies the essence of tea-time snacks in Maharashtra. This moist and aromatic cake, enriched with ghee and flavored with cardamom, nutmeg, and saffron, is perfect for enjoying alongside a steaming cup of Irani chai. With its unique texture and rich flavor profile, this recipe will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mumbai, making it a cherished addition to your collection of Indian desserts.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Milk (warm) | 150 ml |
| Ghee (adjust according to taste) | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pistachios (for garnish) | A handful |
| Raisins (soaked in milk for 15 minutes) | 1/4 cup |
| Saffron strands (soaked in milk for 15 minutes) | 1/8 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 18 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
Preparation Steps
Total Time: 100 minutes
Prep Time: 75 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
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Ingredient Preparation: Begin by gathering all the ingredients. The success of the Pathare Prabhu Roath lies in the proper preparation of the semolina and ghee mixture, so ensure everything is measured and ready before you start.
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Mixing Semolina and Ghee: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the semolina and 2 tablespoons of ghee. Use your fingertips to rub the ghee into the semolina until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. To check for the right consistency, attempt to form the semolina into a ball; if it holds its shape, the ghee is sufficient. If it crumbles apart, add an extra tablespoon of ghee and rub it in thoroughly.
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Incorporating Milk: Gradually add the warm milk to the semolina mixture, stirring continuously until it is well combined. The mixture should become smooth and slightly thickened, but not overly runny. This step is crucial as the semolina needs to absorb the milk properly.
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Resting the Mixture: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow the semolina mixture to rest for about an hour. This resting period is essential for the semolina to absorb the milk, resulting in a moist and fluffy cake.
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Preheating the Oven: About 10 minutes before the hour is up, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
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Adding Sugar and Flavors: After the resting period, add the sugar to the semolina mixture and mix well until fully incorporated. Then, fold in the soaked raisins, cardamom powder, nutmeg, and saffron along with the milk it was soaked in. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to over-mix.
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Baking the Cake: Grease a baking dish or a springform cake pan with ghee. Pour the semolina batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Gently loosen the edges with a knife and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the Pathare Prabhu Roath warm or at room temperature, garnished with a handful of chopped pistachios.
Serving Suggestions
For an authentic Maharashtrian experience, enjoy the Pathare Prabhu Roath with Irani Chai, a fragrant and flavorful tea that complements the cake perfectly. Additionally, consider serving it alongside Raw Banana Chivda, a spicy and crunchy snack that adds a delightful contrast to the sweet semolina cake. This combination makes for a memorable tea-time spread that will impress your family and friends.
Conclusion
The Pathare Prabhu Roath is not just a cake; it is a celebration of flavors and tradition that brings people together, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. With its simple yet enriching ingredients, this semolina cake embodies the warmth of home cooking. Whether served during festive occasions or enjoyed as an everyday snack, this recipe will surely become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Feel free to explore variations of this recipe by incorporating your favorite nuts or dried fruits, or even experimenting with spices to suit your palate. Happy baking!
