Baked Modak and Karanji/Gujiya Recipe
Introduction:
Ganesh Chaturthi is just around the corner, and if you’re someone who loves to indulge in festive sweets but prefers to keep it healthier, then this recipe for Baked Modak and Karanji (also known as Gujiya) is perfect for you. These traditional Indian sweets are made lighter and healthier by baking them instead of deep frying. Packed with a flavorful coconut and semolina filling, these bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re offering them to Lord Ganesha during the festival or serving them to family and friends, these baked goodies are sure to delight everyone’s taste buds. So, let’s dive into this easy, healthier version of Modak and Karanji that combines taste with tradition!
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12–15 Modaks and Karanjis
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Water | As required |
For the Stuffing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dessicated Coconut | 1 cup |
| Sugar (powdered) | 1/3 cup |
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 1/4 cup |
| Cashew Nuts (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Start by preparing the dough for the modak and karanji. In a mixing bowl, combine 1-1/2 cups of All Purpose Flour (Maida) with 2 tablespoons of ghee and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add water to the mixture, little by little, until it forms a smooth dough similar to that of chapati dough.
- Knead the dough well until it becomes soft and pliable. Cover it with a wet cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat a skillet or pan and melt 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add 1/4 cup of Sooji (Semolina/Rava) to the ghee and roast it until it releases a pleasant aroma and turns slightly golden.
- Add 1 cup of Dessicated Coconut to the pan and fry it for about 1 minute until it lightly changes its color.
- Now, add 1/3 cup of powdered Sugar and stir it well. Allow the mixture to cook on low flame for another 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped cashew nuts and 1 teaspoon of Cardamom Powder (Elaichi), mixing everything together. Let it cook for another minute, then switch off the flame.
- Allow the stuffing mixture to cool down completely.
Step 3: Shape the Modaks and Karanjis
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into small equal-sized balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
- Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a thin disc.
- Keep these discs covered with a moist kitchen cloth or paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
For Karanji:
- Place a spoonful of the stuffing at the center of each disc.
- Fold the disc in half to form a half-moon shape.
- Use a fork to press along the edges, sealing the karanji and creating a pretty design on the edge.
For Modak:
- Take a disc and hold it in the palm of your left hand, forming a small bowl shape.
- Place a spoonful of the stuffing at the center and carefully gather the edges of the disc.
- Pinch and fold the edges to shape the modak into a form resembling a fresh fig.
Step 4: Bake the Modaks and Karanjis
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking tray with greased aluminum foil (use a bit of ghee to grease it).
- Arrange the prepared modaks and karanjis on the tray, ensuring they are spaced out.
- Lightly brush each piece with ghee to give it a nice glaze when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through after 10 minutes to ensure an even golden brown color on both sides.
- After 20 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and let the treats cool on a cooling rack.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once completely cooled, transfer your Baked Modaks and Karanjis to an airtight container to preserve their crispiness. Serve them with other festive snacks like Moong Dal Mini Samosas or a tangy Chana Chaat for an unforgettable Ganesh Chaturthi celebration!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 Modak/Karanji):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Vegan: You can replace ghee with coconut oil or olive oil to make this recipe vegan.
- Stuffing Variations: Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like dates, raisins, or poppy seeds.
- Flavor Twist: Try adding a pinch of saffron or a bit of rose water to the filling for a fragrant touch.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
Enjoy these healthier Baked Modaks and Karanjis as part of your festive spread. They are a delightful blend of tradition and wellness, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without guilt. Whether you’re making them for Ganesh Chaturthi or just to treat your family, these snacks are bound to bring smiles and satisfaction!
