Modak Recipe for upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi

Modak, a cherished sweet dumpling from India, is especially popular during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. With its soft, rice flour exterior and a rich, aromatic coconut filling, this treat is a true celebration of flavors and textures. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making these delicious dumplings at home.

 Ingredients

For the Dough:
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– A pinch of salt

For the Filling:
– 1 cup grated fresh coconut
-1 cup shredded or powdered jaggery, according to taste
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
– – 2 tablespoons sliced dry fruits (like raisins, cashews and almonds)
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)

 Instructions

Preparing the Filling:

1. **Heat the Ghee**: In a non-stick pan, melt 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Ghee adds a rich flavor and helps in binding the filling.

2.Cook the Coconut: Add the grated coconut to the pan. Stir continuously to lightly roast the coconut. After a couple of minutes to three, it ought to be fragrant yet not brown.

3.  Add jaggery : Mix in the jaggery. Stirring frequently, permit the jaggery to melt and blend with the coconut. The entire dish has to cook for five to seven minutes. The jaggery should dissolve completely, and the mixture should thicken to a paste-like consistency.

4. Add Flavors: Stir in the cardamom powder, which imparts a warm, aromatic flavor. Mix in the chopped nuts, dry fruits, and if using, poppy seeds. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.

5. Cool down the staffing: Spoon the fillings onto a plate and allow it to cool entirely.

Preparing the Dough:

1. Boil Water: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil. To the water, add a single tablespoon of ghee and an equal amount of salt.
2.  Add Rice Flour: Gradually add 1 cup of rice flour to the boiling water while stirring continuously. This helps in preventing lumps and ensures even mixing.

3. Cook the Dough : Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. The dough is going to bind and thicken.

4. Knead the Dough: Remove the dough from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes until it is comfortable to handle. Knead it on a clean surface until it becomes smooth and pliable. If the dough feels too dry, sprinkle a little water; if too sticky, add a bit more rice flour. The dough should not be excessively sticky, it should be soft and smooth.

Shaping and Cooking Modaks:

1. Prepare Steamer : Set up a steamer or an idli maker. Grease the steaming trays or plates with ghee to prevent sticking.

2. Shape the Modaks : Divide the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a walnut. Roll each ball into a tiny disc shape with rolling pin. Place a spoonful of the cooled coconut filling in the center of each disc.

3. Form the Modaks : Carefully gather the edges of the disc to cover the filling, pinching and pleating the top to form a conical shape. Ensure the base is slightly flattened so that the modak stands upright.

4. Set the Modaks : place the prepared modaks on the steaming plates after oiling the plates. Steam them for about 10-15 minutes. You can use a traditional steamer or an electric one. The modaks turn firm, they are now completed.

5. Cool and Serve : Allow the modaks to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, but you can also store them in an airtight container for a few days. If you want, you can garnish them with a touch of ghee or extra chopped nuts before serving.

Additional Tips:

— Dough Texture: The modaks’ design relies on the dough’s consistency. It should be smooth and pliable. If you encounter any issues with the dough being too sticky or too dry, adjust the water or flour accordingly.

• Filling Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with different nuts, dried fruits, or even a mix of sweeteners like brown sugar or honey. You can also add a bit of khoya (dried milk) for a richer filling.
• Steaming Tips: Ensure that the steamer is adequately heated before placing the modaks. This helps in even cooking and prevents the modaks from becoming sticky.

Enjoy making and indulging in these traditional modaks, a sweet symbol of joy and celebration!

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