Bhapa Puli is a traditional Bengali sweet, typically made with rice flour, coconut, and jaggery.

The “bhapa” style refers to a steaming method, which gives the dumplings a soft, chewy texture.

Here’s a recipe to make Bhapa Puli with Coconuts:

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• Fresh grated coconut – 1 cup

• Jaggery (or sugar) – 1/2 cup (adjust to sweetness preference)

• Cardamom powder – 1/2 tsp

• A pinch of salt

For the Dough:

• Rice flour – 1 cup

• Water – 1 cup (for boiling)

• Salt – a pinch

• Ghee or clarified butter – 1 tbsp (optional, for softness)

For Steaming:

• Water – as required for steaming

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a pan, add the grated coconut and jaggery (or sugar). Stir them over low-medium heat until the jaggery melts and combines with the coconut. This should take around 5-7 minutes.

• Add cardamom powder and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture thickens and the liquid evaporates, leaving a dry, sticky coconut filling. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Dough:

• In a separate pan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and 1 tbsp of ghee or butter (if using).
• Gradually add the rice flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the dough comes together and forms a smooth, non-sticky mass.

• Let the dough cool enough to handle it. Once it’s cool, knead it for a few minutes to make it smooth and soft.

3. Shape the Pulis:

• Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).

• Flatten each ball into a small disc using your palms.

• Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling in the center of each disc.

• Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape or a cylindrical shape, pinching the edges to seal them tightly. You can shape them like small dumplings or pouches.

4. Steam the Bhapa Pulis:

• Prepare a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack. Bring water to a boil.

• Place the prepared puli on the steaming rack, ensuring they are not touching each other.

• Steam them for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is fully cooked and soft to touch. The puli will expand slightly during steaming.

5. Serve:

• Once done, remove the Bhapa Puli from the steamer and let them cool slightly.

• Serve them warm as a delicious treat, especially during festivals or special occasions.

Enjoy your Bhapa Puli with coconut filling!

They’re a delightful and comforting Bengali dessert!