Traditional Steamed Modak Recipe (Ukadiche Modak With Rice Flour)
Perfect for Ganesh Chaturthi or any special occasion, these soft and flavorful Ukadiche Modaks are filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture, wrapped in a delicate rice flour coating. Learn how to make this beloved Maharashtrian dessert, step-by-step.
Introduction
The Traditional Steamed Modak or Ukadiche Modak is a traditional Indian sweet that holds deep significance during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, especially in Maharashtra. Modaks are offered to Lord Ganesha as Naivedyam (a food offering). These steamed dumplings are a perfect combination of a soft rice flour shell and a deliciously sweet coconut-jaggery filling. The use of aromatic spices like cardamom, nutmeg, and roasted poppy seeds gives the modaks their signature taste and fragrance, making them a true delicacy.
Making Ukadiche Modak requires patience and care, but the results are incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re familiar with the recipe or new to it, the process of preparing these modaks can be a beautiful way to connect with the tradition and bring people together during festive times.
Ingredients
For the Outer Layer (Dough):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice Flour | 1 cup |
| Water | 1.5 cups |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Coconut, grated | 1.5 cups |
| Jaggery, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom Pods/Seeds (ground) | 3-4 pods |
| Rice Flour | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg Powder | 1 pinch |
| Roasted Poppy Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Almonds (sliced) | 5 almonds |
| Sultana Raisins (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Chironji (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Pistachios (sliced, optional) | 6-7 pieces |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens, such as tree nuts (almonds, pistachios) and may contain traces of gluten due to the rice flour preparation process. If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, be sure to check ingredient labels for any cross-contamination risks. Additionally, it’s important to note that jaggery, a key ingredient in the filling, is a natural sugar derived from sugarcane, which may affect individuals with sugar sensitivities. The modaks are suitable for vegetarians.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: The recipe is entirely plant-based, with no dairy or animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Gluten-Free: Using rice flour for the dough ensures that the modaks are gluten-free, making them a great choice for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Nut-Free Option: You can omit the almonds, pistachios, sultana raisins, and chironji from the filling to make this recipe nut-free.
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by preparing the sweet filling for the modaks. In a non-stick pan, combine freshly grated coconut, ghee, and jaggery. Place the pan on medium heat and cook the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent it from burning and ensure the jaggery melts properly.
Next, add the roasted poppy seeds, ground cardamom, nutmeg powder, and other filling ingredients such as sliced almonds, sultana raisins (if using), chironji (if using), and pistachios. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Let the filling cool down to room temperature. Set it aside to be used later.
Step 2: Prepare the Outer Dough
In the same pan, heat the water along with ghee and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Slowly add the rice flour to the boiling water while stirring continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming.
Continue cooking the mixture on low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency, turn off the heat. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the dough to rest for 4 to 5 minutes. This will ensure that the dough is soft and pliable.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Once the dough has cooled slightly and is comfortable to handle, transfer it to a plate or large bowl. Dip your palms in cool water to knead the dough. Knead it well until it becomes smooth and soft. If the dough feels too dry or hard, add a little warm water and continue kneading until it reaches the right texture.
Once the dough is smooth and pliable, cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out while you shape the modaks.
Step 4: Shape the Modaks
Now comes the fun part—shaping the modaks! Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it gently with your fingers to form a small disc. Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling in the center of the disc.
Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the sides to seal it completely. Shape the modak into a conical or rounded shape, depending on your preference. The traditional Ukadiche Modak is usually shaped like a small pyramid with a pointed top.
Step 5: Steam the Modaks
Prepare your steamer by greasing the steaming tray with a little ghee. Arrange the shaped modaks on the tray, leaving some space between each one to prevent them from sticking together during steaming.
Steam the modaks in a preheated steamer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn soft and glossy. You will know they’re ready when the outer shell is smooth and the modaks no longer feel sticky to the touch.
Step 6: Serve
Once steamed, remove the modaks from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them as part of a festive meal or as a sweet treat during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
Tips for Success
- Consistency of Dough: The consistency of the dough is key to making perfect modaks. If the dough is too stiff, it will be hard to shape. On the other hand, if it’s too soft, it will break apart. If you find your dough to be too dry, add a little warm water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle some rice flour and knead until it’s smooth.
- Filling Variations: While the traditional filling consists of coconut and jaggery, feel free to experiment with different fillings. You can add nuts, dry fruits, or even a pinch of saffron for extra richness.
- Steaming Tips: Make sure to steam the modaks on medium heat to avoid overcooking them. Overcooking can cause the dough to become tough or dry.
Conclusion
The Traditional Steamed Modak (Ukadiche Modak) is a labor of love that delivers a perfect blend of sweetness and texture in every bite. This dish represents the devotion and tradition that surrounds the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, but it’s also a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of the soft rice flour dough and the sweet, fragrant filling is nothing short of heavenly. So, take your time to prepare these delicious modaks and savor the joy of sharing them with loved ones.
Happy cooking and enjoy the celebration of flavors and traditions!
