Jackfruit Seed Modak Recipe
A Delightful Indian Sweet with a Twist on Tradition
Jackfruit Seed Modak, a unique twist on the classic modak, is a perfect blend of earthy flavors and sweet fillings. Modak, a beloved traditional Indian dessert, is usually associated with the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. Known for its sweet coconut and jaggery filling, the Jackfruit Seed Modak offers an innovative variation by replacing the conventional stuffing with jackfruit seeds, a highly nutritious and often underutilized ingredient.
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of palm sugar, the warmth of cardamom, and the smooth texture of rice flour, creating a delicately flavored modak that’s both filling and satisfying. Ideal for festivals or as a sweet treat to enjoy after a festive meal, this dish is a celebration of traditional ingredients presented in a modern, creative way.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jackfruit Seeds (Kathal) | 1 cup |
| Palm Sugar (powdered) | 1/3 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Rice Flour | 1 cup |
| Water | As needed |
| Sesame Oil (Gingelly Oil) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Ghee | As required |
| Thonnai (Dried Leaves) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Modak)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 10 modaks
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Jackfruit Seed Filling
- Begin by cooking the jackfruit seeds. Take a pressure cooker, add the jackfruit seeds along with enough water to cover them. Pressure cook the seeds for 4 whistles.
- Once the pressure has released naturally, drain the water and remove the outer thick white skin from the seeds. The brown skin is fine and can be left intact. Allow the seeds to cool completely before proceeding.
-
Make the Stuffing
- Once the jackfruit seeds have cooled, transfer them to a mixer grinder. Add the powdered palm sugar and cardamom powder.
- Blend everything together into a smooth mixture. There’s no need to add water; the natural moisture of the cooked seeds should be sufficient to form a smooth paste.
- Once blended, transfer the mixture into a bowl and divide it into 14 equal-sized portions.
- Rub your palms with a little ghee to prevent the mixture from sticking, then roll each portion into a ball.
-
Prepare the Outer Layer
- In a large bowl, add 1 cup of rice flour, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil (you may not need all of it). Gradually add the boiling water to the rice flour mixture, stirring continuously to form a smooth, pliable dough.
- Once the dough comes together, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and mix well. Cover the dough with a damp cloth to keep it moist.
-
Shape the Modaks
- Rub your hands with ghee and take a small portion of the rice flour dough. Roll it into a round ball.
- Flatten the ball slightly and begin shaping it into a cup by pressing from the outer edges. The sides should be thin, and the center should form a cavity to hold the filling.
- Place a prepared jackfruit seed ball into the center of the dough cup.
- Gently fold the edges over the filling and pinch the top to seal the modak. Shape it into the traditional modak shape, with a peak at the top.
-
Steam the Modaks
- In a pressure cooker, place the dried thonnai (leaves) at the bottom of the cooker. These leaves help in imparting a traditional aroma and also prevent the modaks from sticking.
- Place the shaped modaks over the thonnai leaves.
- Cover the cooker without the pressure valve and steam the modaks for about 15 minutes. They should become firm and slightly shiny once done.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- After steaming, remove the modaks from the cooker and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Jackfruit Seed Modaks as a dessert during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, or enjoy them after a festive meal such as Matki Chi Rassa Bhaji, Rice Flour Bhakri, and Maharashtrian Bharleli Vaangi.
Tips for the Perfect Modak:
- Jackfruit Seeds: Be sure to cook the jackfruit seeds well to soften them and remove the tough skin easily.
- Ghee: Use ghee generously when handling the dough and stuffing, as it will prevent sticking and add a rich flavor to the modaks.
- Steam Carefully: Steaming the modaks in a pressure cooker without the valve ensures they are cooked evenly and retain their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Jackfruit Seed Modak pairs wonderfully with other Indian festival dishes like Sabudana Khichdi, Methi thepla, or Kachaudi. It also complements savory dishes such as Maharashtrian Pithla Bhakri and Masala Bhath for a hearty meal experience. Whether served at a celebration or as an everyday treat, these modaks are sure to impress with their rich taste and intricate texture.
Conclusion
This Jackfruit Seed Modak recipe brings a touch of creativity to a beloved traditional dessert, offering an exciting way to utilize jackfruit seeds in cooking. The unique combination of textures—soft and chewy dough with a subtly sweet filling—makes each bite a delight. Perfect for festive occasions or special family meals, these modaks are a true celebration of Indian culinary heritage.
