Gujarati Meetha Pudla with Caramelized Bananas
Description:
This delightful Gujarati Meetha Pudla is a sweet, fluffy pancake prepared in traditional Gujarati style using whole wheat flour and jaggery as a natural sweetener. It makes for a perfect breakfast when served alongside a warm cup of chai, or it can be transformed into a decadent dessert. The caramelized bananas, delicately cooked in jaggery and infused with cardamom, lend a luscious sweetness to the pudla, making it irresistible. Topped with fresh coconut and roasted cashews, it’s a true treat for any occasion, especially festivals or special gatherings.
Cuisine: Gujarati
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jaggery (grated) | 1/2 Cup |
| Water | 1/3 Cup |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 Cup |
| Nutralite Classic Spread | As required (for greasing) |
| Ripe Bananas | 1 (sliced into rounds) |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 2 Tablespoons |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 Teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 Cup |
| Cashew Nuts | 1/4 Cup |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pudla Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, add the grated jaggery and water. Let the jaggery dissolve in the water for a few minutes.
- Add the whole wheat flour into the jaggery water and blend it into a smooth batter using a hand blender or your fingers to ensure the jaggery is well mixed.
- The batter should be thick enough to spread on the pan but not too runny—aim for a consistency that can easily spread when spooned onto a skillet.
-
-
Cook the Pudla:
- Heat a flat skillet or non-stick pan on medium heat. Once hot, add a small amount of Nutralite Classic Spread to grease the pan.
- Spoon the pudla batter onto the skillet, making small, round pancakes.
- Allow each pudla to cook for 3-4 minutes on medium heat, until the top begins to firm up and you see bubbles starting to form.
- Flip each pudla over and cook the other side until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes more.
- Remove the cooked pudlas from the skillet and set them aside.
-
Caramelize the Bananas:
- In a separate skillet, melt Nutralite Classic Spread on medium heat. Once melted, add the powdered jaggery.
- Stir the jaggery and allow it to melt and caramelize slightly.
- Add the sliced bananas and cardamom powder. Gently cook the bananas in the jaggery until they become soft and sticky, about 5-7 minutes. The bananas should be well coated in the caramelized jaggery.
- Once caramelized, remove from heat and set aside.
-
Roast the Cashews:
- In another small pan, melt a little Nutralite Classic Spread over medium heat.
- Add the cashew nuts and lightly roast them until they turn golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
-
Assemble the Meetha Pudla:
- Arrange the cooked meetha pudlas on a serving platter.
- Spoon the warm caramelized bananas generously on top of each pudla.
- Sprinkle with grated fresh coconut and roasted cashew nuts for an added crunch and flavor.
-
Serve:
- Serve these indulgent Meetha Pudlas as a festive dessert or a special breakfast treat, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: Try adding a small pinch of saffron to the caramelized banana mixture for an exotic flavor and beautiful golden color.
- Make Ahead: The pudlas can be made in advance and reheated gently in the microwave or on a skillet before serving.
- Customization: You can experiment by adding nuts like almonds or pistachios along with the cashews for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~45g |
| Fat | ~7g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sugars | ~15g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximations and may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.
This recipe for Gujarati Meetha Pudla with caramelized bananas is an ideal balance of rich, sweet flavors with a delightful crunch from the cashews, making it a dish you’ll want to make time and time again. Whether you’re celebrating a festive occasion or simply treating yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to impress!
