Gujarati Farali Pattice with Cardamom – Maha Shivaratri Special

Farali Pattice is a popular fasting delicacy, especially prepared during Maha Shivaratri. This crispy and golden snack is made from boiled potatoes filled with a sweet and savory stuffing of coconut, dry fruits, and mild spices; serves as a nutritious and energy-packed option for fasting days. For this special Maha Shivaratri version, use Emperor Akbar Cardamom to infuse the filling with a delightful warmth and sweetness.

Ingredients:
For the Potato Layer:
Boiled and mashed potatoes – 3 large
Arrowroot flour (or singhare ka atta) – 2 tbsp
Rock salt (sendha namak) – to taste

For the Filling:
Grated fresh coconut – ½ cup
Roasted and chopped cashews – 2 tbsp
Raisins – 2 tbsp
Green chilies – 1-2 (finely chopped)
Green Cardamom (crushed) – 3-4 pods (crush fresh Emperor Akbar Cardamom)
Sugar – 1 tsp (optional, for sweetness)
Rock salt (sendha namak) – to taste

For Frying:
Ghee – for shallow frying

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture: Mash the boiled potatoes in a large bowl until smooth. Add arrowroot flour and rock salt. Mix well to form a soft, non-sticky dough. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine grated coconut, roasted cashews, raisins, chopped green chilies, crushed Emperor Akbar Cardamom, sugar, and rock salt. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Shape the Pattice: Divide the potato dough into equal portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball into a disc.
Place a small portion of the filling in the center of the disc. Carefully fold the edges to seal the filling and shape it into a round or oval pattice. Ensure the filling is completely enclosed.

4. Fry the Pattice: Heat ghee in a frying pan over medium heat.
Shallow fry the pattice in batches until golden and crisp on both sides. Flip them gently to ensure even cooking. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess ghee.

5. Serve: Serve the Farali Pattice hot, accompanied by vrat-friendly chutneys like coconut chutney or yogurt-based dips.

This Farali Pattice with Cardamom is a delectable and festive dish perfect for Maha Shivaratri. The subtle aroma of Emperor Akbar Cardamom adds an auspicious touch, making it a dish that is both spiritually significant and deliciously satisfying.