Introduction:
Modak recipe, a classic Indian delicacy, has a unique position in Hindu culture, particularly on the auspicious day of Ganesh Chaturthi. These steamed or fried dumplings are loaded with a sweet mixture of coconut, jaggery, and almonds, making them a lovely treat for both believers and foodies alike. In this post, we’ll go over a step-by-step modak recipe that highlights the rich flavors and cultural significance of this popular dessert.
Ingredients For Modak Recipe:
For the Dough:
1 cup rice flour
1 cup water
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
For the Filling:
1 cup grated coconut
1/2 cup grated jaggery
2 tablespoons chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
For Steaming (if making steamed modak):
Ghee or oil, for greasing
Steamer or idli maker
Step-by-Step Modak Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough:
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.
Add a pinch of salt and little ghee to the boiling water.
Lower the heat and gradually add the rice flour to the water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, until it forms a smooth dough.
Remove the dough from the heat and place it on a platter. Allow it to cool somewhat.
Step 2: Make the Filling:
Preheat a nonstick pan over medium heat.
Add grated coconut and jaggery to the pan.
Cook the mixture, stirring regularly, until the jaggery melts and the coconut becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized.
Add the chopped almonds and cardamom powder to the coconut-jaggery mixture.
Mix thoroughly and heat for a further minute. Remove from the heat and allow the filling to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Shape the Modaks:
Divide the dough into small, lemon-sized balls.
Take a ball of dough and flatten it into a tiny disc with your fingertips.
Insert a dollop of the coconut-jaggery filling into the center of the disc.
Bring the disc’s edges together to cover the filling, then pinch to close, forming a modak.
Repeat with the remaining dough and filling to make additional modaks.
Step 4: Cook the Modaks:
For Steamed Modaks:
Grease the steamer plates and idli molds with ghee or oil.
Place the formed modaks on the greased plates with some space between them.
Steam the modaks in a steamer or idli machine for 10-12 minutes, or until thoroughly cooked.
Once finished, remove the modaks from the steamer and allow to cool slightly before serving.
For Fried Modaks (Optional):
In a deep frying pan, melt the ghee or oil over medium heat.
Gently lay the formed modaks in the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried modaks from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy:
Place the steamed or fried modaks on a serving platter.
Offer these as prasad (offering) to Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi, or eat them as a delightful treat with your family and friends.
Modaks can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Additional Tips For perfect Modak Recipe:
Variations: For a unique touch, try using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips in the filling.
To achieve a smoother texture, grind the coconut and jaggery combination in a food processor before cooking.
Modak Molds: If you have modak molds, use them to shape the modak recipe for a more consistent and attractive appearance.
Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery to suit your taste. Increase for a sweeter filling, or decrease for a less sweet version.
Steaming Time: The steaming time varies according to the size and thickness of the modak recipe. Steam them until they are fully cooked and slightly transparent.
Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi or simply enjoy the rich flavors of modaks with this genuine modak recipe. Whether steamed or fried, these scrumptious dumplings are guaranteed to add joy and sweetness to any celebration.
You might also like:Â Perfect Guacamole Recipe: A Flavorful Dip for Every Occasion