Dry Fruit & Nut Modak Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serving Size: 8 modaks (2 inches each)
Description:
The Dry Fruit & Nut Modak is a festive Indian sweet, traditionally prepared during Ganesh Chaturthi. This delightful treat is rich in nutrients, as it is entirely made from dry fruits and nuts, and sweetened naturally with dates. The addition of dried figs, cashews, almonds, and pistachios gives it a deliciously wholesome and nutritious flavor. Thanks to the dates, there’s no need for any additional sugar or sweeteners, making this a healthier option for both children and adults.
These modaks can be enjoyed as a prashad (offering to the deity) during religious occasions or can be served as a healthy snack for kids after school. They pair wonderfully with a variety of other snacks, such as a Chaat Style Mashed Potato Toasted Sandwich and a refreshing Chocolate & Orange Smoothie with Pea Protein.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (deseeded, chopped) | 3/4 cup |
| Dried Figs | 6, finely chopped |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 1/4 cup |
| Pistachios | 1/4 cup |
| Cashew Nuts | 2 teaspoons |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 pinch |
| Poppy Seeds | 1 teaspoon, slightly roasted |
| Ghee | 4 tablespoons |
Instructions:
-
Roast the Nuts:
Begin by heating a kadai (wok) on low heat. Add the almonds, pistachios, and cashew nuts. Dry roast them gently, stirring occasionally. As they begin to brown slightly, remove them from the heat. Transfer the nuts to a plate to cool. -
Grind the Nuts:
Once the nuts have cooled, grind them into a fine powder using a mixer grinder or food processor. Set this powder aside. -
Prepare Dates and Figs:
Roughly chop the dates and add them along with the finely chopped dried figs into the same kadai. Add a little ghee to the pan. On low heat, continuously fry the dates and figs for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and crisps up. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. -
Grind the Date-Fig Mixture:
Once the date and fig mixture has cooled, grind it into a smooth paste using a grinder. This paste will form the base of your modak filling. -
Combine and Cook:
Return the ground date-fig mixture to the kadai. Add the dry fruit and nut powder, roasted poppy seeds, and cardamom powder. Stir everything together and cook on low heat for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the mixture begins to come together and forms a lump. If needed, add a little more ghee to help it bind together. -
Shape the Modaks:
The dry fruit mixture should be warm when shaping the modaks. Working with the mixture while itβs still warm will help ensure that the nuts and dry fruits donβt crumble. Press enough of the mixture into a modak mold, press firmly for a few seconds, then release the mold gently to reveal your modak. Repeat until all the mixture is used. -
Serve:
Your Dry Fruit & Nut Modaks are now ready to serve! These treats are best enjoyed fresh, though they can be stored in an airtight container for a few days. They are perfect as a prashad offering or a healthy snack, and can also be paired with a variety of other light snacks and smoothies for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these modaks as a delicious, healthy dessert during Ganesh Chaturthi or as an after-school snack for kids. They can also be served alongside other festive foods like Chaat Style Mashed Potato Toasted Sandwich and a refreshing Chocolate & Orange Smoothie with Pea Protein for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Approx.):
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Energy | 130-150 kcal |
| Protein | 3-4g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
| Fats | 5-6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1-2g |
| Sodium | 1-2mg |
| Potassium | 150-200mg |
Tips for Success:
- Consistency: Ensure that the date-fig mixture is thick enough to hold its shape when making modaks. If itβs too loose, add a little more ghee to bind it together.
- Ghee: Since this recipe is rich in ghee, you can adjust the amount depending on the consistency you prefer. Ghee helps in both flavor and texture, so don’t hesitate to add extra if necessary.
- Storage: Store the modaks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but bring them to room temperature before serving.
With its wholesome ingredients and rich flavor, this Dry Fruit & Nut Modak recipe is sure to become a favorite treat for any festive occasion or as a nutritious snack any day!
