The sheer range of Gujarati often leaves us overawed. Dhokla, Khakra, Ganthiya, Fafda, the list is varied and endless. Countless Gujrati snacks of farsaan items have contributed to memorable chai-time chronicles; and in addition to being very flavourful, a lot of these snacks are also super healthy and celebrates local and seasonal produce. One such snack would be patra, you must have seen these green swirls on a quintessential Gujarati thali. These bite-sized roll-ups are made of colocasia leaves that we popularly know as arbi ka patta.
For this snack, these green arbi leaves are coated in a thick batter made of gram flour, tamarind pulp, chilli powder, turmeric, asafetida, cumin seeds and sugar. Once one leaf is coated, another is placed on top, and the process is repeated. These stacks of leaves are then folded in a tight roll and cut in equal-shaped chunks which are then steamed. Steamed snacks are considered a tad healthier than fried snacks as the calorie load decreases. These roll-ups have a nice rubbery and crispy texture, and an incredible flavour which tugs at your heartstrings.
(Also Read: 11 Best Steamed Recipes | Easy Steamed Recipes)
We may have a love-hate relationship with greens, but in India, we just do not toss away any part of the vegetable so easily. Arbi greens are touted to be a rich source of plant-based antioxidants that help fight dangerous free radical activity. Free radical activity often takes a toll on our immunity, skin and heart. Because colocasia leaves are also enriched with fibre, and prevent excess weight gain. Fibre takes the longest to digest, because of which it imparts a sense of satiety. If you feel satiated, you would naturally hold back from over-eating. Colocasia leaves are a treasure of micronutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and calcium- that promote overall well-being and keep you healthy. You could prepare these in a range of ways; have them in stir-fry toss them in salads, or make this desi and intensely satisfying patra- the choice is yours!
Here's how you can make patra at home, follow this step-by-step recipe and let us know how you liked it in the comments section below.
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