Coconut Delight Modaks

Coconut and Rice Dumplings Recipe

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 20 modaks

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups water
• 4 1/2 cups rice flour
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 cups jaggery (or sugar)
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 2 cups water (for jaggery syrup)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 4 tablespoons raisins
• Oil, for greasing
• Hot ghee, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

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   • In a large saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil.
   • Add a pinch of salt and a little oil to the boiling water.
   • Gradually stir in the rice flour, ensuring there are no lumps.
   • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a dough-like consistency.
   • Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Coconut Filling:

   • In another pan, heat the jaggery with 2 cups of water (or sugar if using) to make a thick syrup.
   • Add the grated coconut to the syrup and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
   • Stir in the cardamom powder and raisins, and continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated and the mixture is almost dry.
   • Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

3. Assemble the Dumplings:

   • Divide the rice dough into 20 equal portions.
   • Grease your palms lightly with oil.
   • Take one portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm to form a small cup shape.
   • Place a spoonful of the coconut filling into the center of the dough cup.

4. Shape the Dumplings:

   • Bring together the edges of the dough cup, pleating them together to form a fluted top, resembling a dumpling shape.

5. Steam the Dumplings:

   • Prepare a steamer and line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
   • Place the shaped modaks in the steamer, ensuring they are not touching each other.
   • Steam cook the modaks for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick into a dumpling; it should come out clean when done.

6. Serve:

   • Once cooked, carefully remove the modaks from the steamer.
   • Serve them warm, brushed with hot ghee for extra flavor.

These Coconut and Rice Dumplings (Modaks) are a delightful Asian-Indian dessert, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat. The combination of soft rice dough and sweet coconut filling, flavored with cardamom and raisins, makes them a favorite among those with a sweet tooth. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious dumplings with your loved ones!