Recipe For Modak on Ganesh Chaturthi 2024

We think of Ganesh Chaturthi and the first word that comes to our mind is Modak. Yes! Ganesha’s favorite modaks are a must. In most places in the country you might get them directly from a shop. However, making modaks all by yourself and then offering it to the deity gives another level of satisfaction. Do you wish to make modaks for Gannu Maharaj and do not have any idea how to start? I can help you with that, don’t worry! Let’s get started with the easiest modak recipe.

About Modak

Modak is a tasty and well-known Indian sweet dumpling, especially popular during the Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. These sweets symbolize the blessings of Lord Ganesha and are an important part of the celebrations.

According to Hindu mythology, modak is considered Ganesha’s favorite food. This is the reason why he earned him the name Modakapriya, which means “one who likes modak.” As part of the rituals on Ganesh Chaturthi, 21 modaks are offered as bhog and later distributed as prasad to all the devotees.

Types of Modak

There are mostly two different types of modak that are offered to Ganeha:

1. Steamed Modak: Known as “ukadiche modak,” this is a healthy version of modak that tastes delicious with various sweet fillings inside. It can also be steamed in an Instant Pot.

2. Fried Modak: A simpler and easier alternative, this is the fried version of modak. You can check out our blog on talniche modak recipe or fried version of modak.

Steamed Modak Recipe

So, if you are willing to give a healthier version of modak to your Gannu Maharaj, then here we go. Here we are sharing recipes for steamed Modaks (recipe for ukadiche modak).

Ingredients List for Modak Recipe:

– 1 cup of rice flour

– 1 1/4 cups of water

– A pinch of salt

– 1 tablespoon of ghee

For the filling inside the modak

3/4 cup of grated jaggery

1 cup of grated coconut

1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder

A pinch of salt

A pinch of nutmeg powder (optional)

1 Tablespoon of Khus Khus

Steps to be followed for making the filling first (Jaggery & Coconut Modak Recipe)

1. The ukdi modak recipe first includes heating a pan over medium-low heat.

2. Second step will be to add the grated coconut and jaggery to the pan. You need to stir continuously until the jaggery melts and blends with the coconut.

3. Third step is to mix in cardamom powder, khush khush, nutmeg powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

4. Cook the mixture for a few minutes until it slightly thickens and holds together.

5. Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool.

6. Keep 21 small & equal portions of the filling aside 

Steps to be followed for making the Dough

1. Start by boiling water in a separate pan.

2. Add a pinch of salt and ghee to the boiling water.

3. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the rice flour to prevent clumps.

4. Continue stirring until the rice flour absorbs the water and forms a dough-like consistency.

5. Cover the pan with a lid and let the dough cook over low heat for a few minutes.

How to prepare the Modak (assemble it) – Modak Recipe

There are two ways to make it, one is with a mould and the other one is without a mould. To get a mould you can search the local shops near your house or you can also order them online.

Prepare without Mould

• Grease your hands with some ghee
• Shape a small portion of the dough into a smooth ball, then flatten it into a small disc using your fingers or a rolling pin.
• Hold the disc in your hand and gently press the center to create a shallow dough for the filling.
• Spoon a portion of the prepared coconut-jaggery filling into the depression made.
• Begin folding and pleating the edges of the disc, gathering them together at the top.
• Carefully pinch and twist the gathered top to secure the shape of the modak.
• Ensure the modak is tightly sealed and forms a conical shape.

Prepare with Mould

• Grease the mould with some ghee
• Take a small portion of the dough and place it inside the mould maker. Press it inside the cavity of the mould maker till it is evenly aligned on all the sides.
• Fill in the jaggery, coconut mixture inside the mould
• Again take a small portion of the dough and fill in the gap to seal it completely.
• Close the modak mould and then finally demould it.

Steam the Modaks

• Grease a steamer plate or basket with ghee to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the modaks on the plate, ensuring they are spaced apart to avoid sticking while steaming.
• Steam the modaks over medium heat for approximately ten to 15 minutes until the outer covering turns translucent and the modaks firm up, indicating they are cooked.

Hope you like our recipe. For fried modak recipes check out our other blog. Do like, share and also, comment your experience on making modaks. Also, if you can share some pro tips with us, you are most welcome. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to everyone.