Modak Recipe: Modak is a traditional Indian sweet. It is loved during Ganesh Chaturthi. Lord Ganesha adores modaks. This dessert is soft and tasty. It has a sweet filling inside a rice flour shell. You can make it at home. This recipe is simple. It uses basic ingredients. Middle-class families can try it. Let’s learn how to make modak step-by-step.
Why Make Modak?
Modak is special for festivals. It brings joy to celebrations. It is easy to prepare. The ingredients are affordable. You don’t need fancy tools. This recipe makes 10-12 modaks. It’s perfect for small gatherings. You can share it with family and friends.
Ingredients for Modak Recipe
For the Filling
1 cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
¾ cup jaggery (grated or powdered)
½ tsp cardamom powder
1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
2 tbsp chopped nuts (cashews or almonds, optional)
For the Outer Shell
1 cup rice flour
1.5 cups water
1 tsp ghee
A pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
A pan for the filling
A deep pot for the dough
A steamer or pressure cooker
A modak mould (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Take a pan. Heat 1 tbsp ghee on a low flame. Add grated coconut. Stir for 2 minutes. Add jaggery. Mix well. The jaggery will melt. Keep stirring for 5-7 minutes. The mix will thicken. Add cardamom powder. Add nuts if you want. Stir for 1 minute. Turn off the heat. Let the filling cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Take a pot. Add 1.5 cups of water. Add 1 tsp ghee and a pinch of salt. Boil it. Lower the flame. Add rice flour slowly. Stir fast to avoid lumps. Mix until it forms a soft dough. Cover the pot. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat.
Move the dough to a plate. Let it cool a bit. It should be warm, not hot. Wet your hands. Knead the dough well. It should be smooth and soft. If it’s dry, add a little water. Cover with a damp cloth.
Step 3: Shape the Modaks
Take a small dough ball. Size it like a lemon. Flatten it into a thin circle. Use your fingers. Make it 3-4 inches wide. Add 1 tbsp filling in the center. Pinch the edges to form pleats. Bring the pleats together. Seal the top to make a modak shape. Use a modak mould for easy shaping.
Step 4: Steam the Modaks
Take a steamer. Add water at the bottom. Heat it. Place a banana leaf or cloth inside. Put modaks on it. Keep space between them. Steam for 10-12 minutes. The shell will look shiny. Turn off the heat. Let them cool slightly.
Serving Tips
Serve modaks warm. Add a drizzle of ghee on top. It enhances the taste. Offer them to Lord Ganesha first. Then share with family. Store extras in an airtight box. Eat within 1-2 days.
Why This Recipe Works
This modak recipe is easy. It uses simple ingredients. Coconut and jaggery are healthy. The steps are clear. No special skills are needed. It’s budget-friendly. Middle-class families can enjoy it. The recipe is perfect for Ganesh Chaturthi or any day.
Tips for Making Modak Recipe
Use fresh coconut for a better taste.
Don’t overcook the filling. It should be soft.
Knead the dough well. It prevents cracks.
Steam on medium heat. High heat can break modaks.
If you don’t have a mould, shape it by hand.
Conclusion
Modak is a sweet delight. It brings festive cheer. This recipe is simple and quick. You can make it at home. Try it for Ganesh Chaturthi. Or make it for fun. Your family will love it. Enjoy this tasty treat