### Paal Poli Recipe: A Timeless South Indian Delicacy
Paal Poli is an irresistible dessert from South India that features a blend of sweetened, cardamom-infused milk paired with crispy, deep-fried pooris. Typically enjoyed on special occasions like weddings and festivals, this traditional sweet is beloved for its distinct flavor and texture. In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, it is referred to by various names such as paal poori, milk poli, halu obbattu, and poori payasa. Different regions offer their own variations of the recipe, making it a delightful delicacy to discover.
#### The Heart of Paal Poli
Paal Poli transcends the definition of a mere dessert; it embodies a symphony of flavors and textures. The pooris are deep-fried to achieve the ideal level of crunchiness and are then submerged in a rich, reduced sweetened milk. This milk is infused with fragrant spices like cardamom and nutmeg, forming a divine combination that excites the palate. This dish is particularly favored during festivities such as Diwali, Ugadi, and Navratri, making it a cherished staple in numerous households.
#### Ingredients
To create Paal Poli, you will require the following ingredients:
**For the Pooris:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
– 1/4 cup fine semolina (sooji or chiroti rava)
– Water (as needed)
– A pinch of salt
– Oil (for deep frying)
**For the Sweetened Milk:**
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
– A few strands of saffron (optional)
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Make the Dough:**
– In a mixing bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, semolina, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add water to create a smooth but slightly firm dough, akin to poori dough.
– Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for approximately 15-20 minutes.
2. **Create the Sweetened Milk:**
– In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour in the whole milk and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, lower the heat and let it gently simmer.
– Allow the milk to reduce to about three-quarters of its initial volume. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking to the bottom.
– Incorporate sugar, cardamom powder, nutmeg, and saffron into the simmering milk. Stir thoroughly and let it cook for a few additional minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved. Set aside.
3. **Roll Out the Pooris:**
– Split the rested dough into balls the size of lemons. Roll each ball into thin, circular discs, around 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
– Ensure that the rolled pooris are neither too thick nor too thin; they should possess a slight crunchiness once fried.
4. **Deep Fry the Pooris:**
– Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat. When hot, carefully slide in the rolled pooris, a few at a time.
– Fry them until they attain a golden brown color and a crispy texture. Remove and place on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.
5. **Soak the Pooris:**
– After frying, immerse the pooris in the warm sweetened milk for a few minutes. This permits the pooris to absorb the milk’s delightful flavors.
6. **Serve:**
– Paal Poli can be enjoyed warm or chilled. For the finest experience, refrigerate for a few hours before serving. This dessert is particularly favored by children and is ideal for festive occasions.
#### Conclusion
Paal Poli is not just another dessert; it represents a tradition that unites families during celebrations. Its rich flavors and exquisite textures make it a must-savor for anyone eager to delve into South Indian cuisine. Whether you are making it for a festival or simply to treat yourself to a sweet delight, Paal Poli is sure to captivate. So gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and relish this classic dessert that has endured through the ages.