Date Obattu Recipe (Date Puran Poli)
Introduction
Date Obattu, also known as Puran Poli, Obattu, or Bobattlu, is a cherished traditional Indian sweet dish often prepared for auspicious occasions, festivals, or celebrations. With its roots deeply embedded in the South Indian culinary heritage, this delightful dessert can be found in many households, particularly during festive times. The traditional Puran Poli is usually filled with a mix of dal (lentils) and jaggery, but our recipe puts a delicious twist on it by using dates as the main filling.
Dates, with their rich, naturally sweet flavor, create a filling that’s not only nutritious but also deliciously indulgent. This Date Obattu boasts a longer shelf life and keeps well in the refrigerator for weeks, making it a great make-ahead dessert for the upcoming festive season. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this dessert will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this mouthwatering treat that everyone will love!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (seedless) | 250 grams |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 20 to 25 |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Dessicated Coconut, grated | 1-1/2 cups |
| Jaggery | 1/4 cup (optional) |
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava, fine variety) | 250 grams |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Oil | As needed |
| Ghee | As needed |
Allergen Information
- Almonds: Contains tree nuts. Not suitable for individuals with nut allergies.
- Ghee: Contains dairy. Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- All Purpose Flour (Maida): Contains gluten. Not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based and vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour (maida) with gluten-free flour blends available in the market.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute ghee with coconut oil or any other plant-based fat.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
1. Preparing the Date Filling
- Soak the Dates: Begin by soaking dates in 1/2 cup of hot water for 1-2 hours to soften them.
- Grind Almonds: While the dates are soaking, grind the almonds into a fine powder.
- Grind Coconut: Grind the dessicated coconut into a thick paste, adding very little water as needed.
- Grind Dates: Once the dates have softened, grind them into a smooth paste without adding any extra water.
- Cook the Filling: In a pan, combine the date paste, almond powder, coconut paste, and jaggery (if using). Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set this aside to cool slightly.
- Shape into Balls: Once the mixture has cooled enough to handle, divide it into 4 equal-sized portions and shape each portion into a smooth ball. Set these date balls aside.
2. Preparing the Dough
- Mix Semolina and Maida: In a mixing bowl, add the semolina (sooji), maida (all-purpose flour), and a pinch of salt.
- Knead the Dough: Gradually add water to the flour mixture and knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable. Cover the dough with a moist cloth and let it rest for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Rest the Dough: After the resting period, knead the dough again briefly. Add enough oil to cover the dough completely. To check if it is ready, take a small piece and try spreading it with your fingers on a clean surface. The dough should be thin and not break, and it should almost be transparent when stretched.
3. Assembling the Date Obattu
- Oil the Surface: On a sheet of grease-proof paper, smear a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Form the Dough Discs: Pinch a small amount of dough (about the size of a gooseberry) and flatten it with your fingers into a round disc.
- Stuff with Date Filling: Place one date ball in the center of the dough disc. Gently stretch the edges of the dough to cover the filling and seal it securely, forming a pouch.
- Roll Out the Dough: With the dough ball secured, gently pat it with your fingers or a rolling pin, making the disc as thin as possible. You can keep it slightly thicker according to your preference.
4. Cooking the Date Obattu
- Heat the Tava (Griddle): Preheat a tava (griddle) on medium heat.
- Cook the Obattu: Carefully transfer the rolled Date Obattu onto the hot tava. Let it cook for about 30 seconds on the first side before gently peeling off the greaseproof paper.
- Flip and Cook: Drizzle a little oil or ghee on top and flip the obattu. Let it cook until both sides are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining Date Obattus the same way.
Serving Suggestions
Date Obattu is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Pair this sweet dish with a light, tangy Kosambari (a South Indian salad made with raw mango, cucumber, carrot, and beetroot) and a comforting bowl of Paruppu Rasam (a flavorful lentil-based soup) for a wholesome and festive meal. The contrast of the sweet Date Obattu with the refreshing Kosambari and the tangy Rasam makes for a perfect balance.
Tips for Success
- Consistency of Dough: Ensure that your dough is soft and elastic. If it feels too stiff, add a little more water, and if it’s too soft, add a touch more semolina or flour.
- Oil or Ghee: You can adjust the amount of oil or ghee you use while cooking the obattus. Ghee will lend a rich flavor, while oil keeps the obattus lighter.
- Storing: This Date Obattu has a long shelf life and can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Ensure you store them in an airtight container to retain their freshness.
- Jaggery: The addition of jaggery is optional. If you prefer a natural sweetness, dates alone will suffice, but jaggery adds a deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Date Obattu (Date Puran Poli) is a sweet, fragrant dessert that combines the goodness of dates, nuts, and coconut in a beautifully soft dough. It’s a perfect blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist, offering a healthier alternative to the classic Puran Poli. Whether you’re making it for a festival or just because, this treat will undoubtedly be a hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the joy of making and sharing this delightful Indian sweet. Enjoy every bite!
