Modak Recipes : A Sweet Tribute to Lord Ganesha

Modak Recipes and Preparation

Modak Recipes : A Sweet Tribute to Lord Ganesha

One of the most cherished offerings to Lord Ganesha during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival is the sweet dumpling known as Modak. It is believed that Modak is Ganesha's favorite sweet, and it traditionally takes center stage during celebrations. 

Here are two classic recipes for Modak : one steamed (Ukadiche Modak) and one fried (Fried Modak).

1. Ukadiche Modak (Steamed Modak):

Ingredients:

For the outer shell:

1 cup rice flour

1.5 cups water

A pinch of salt

1 tsp ghee

For the filling:

1 cup grated jaggery

1 cup grated coconut

A pinch of cardamom powder

Method:

Start by preparing the filling. In a pan, mix the grated jaggery and coconut. Cook until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens.

Add cardamom powder and mix well. Remove from heat and set aside.

For the outer shell, boil water in a pan. Add salt and ghee.

Slowly add rice flour and mix continuously to avoid lumps. 

Cook until it forms a soft dough.

Let the dough cool a bit, then knead it until smooth.

Pinch small balls from the dough and flatten them with your fingers.

Place a spoonful of the filling in the center, then pinch the edges to form a petal-like pattern and seal the modak.

Steam the modaks for 10-15 minutes.

Serve hot and enjoy the divine taste.

2. Fried Modak:

Ingredients :

For the outer shell:

1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)

2 tbsp semolina (sooji)

2 tbsp hot ghee

A pinch of salt

Water, as required

For the filling (same as steamed modak)

Method :

Prepare the filling as described above.

For the outer shell, mix all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, and hot ghee in a bowl.

Add water gradually and knead to form a firm dough.

Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Roll the dough into small circles, fill with the jaggery-coconut mixture, and seal the edges in a petal pattern.

Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the modaks until they turn golden brown.

Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Serve the fried modaks and relish the crispy delight.

Conclusion:

Whether steamed or fried, modaks are a must-try during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Their soft texture combined with the sweetness of jaggery and coconut filling offers a divine culinary experience. Make sure to prepare them with love and devotion, as it's believed that Lord Ganesha truly appreciates this gesture!