Authentic Ukdiche Modak Recipe
Today, we’re making lord Ganpati Bappa’s favourite sweet authentic Ukdiche Modak recipe. These delightful dumplings, filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture, are a favorite during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, as they are believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite offering. The soft texture of the outer layer paired with the rich, aromatic filling makes them a cherished treat in every Maharashtrian household.
Making Ukdiche Modak is not just about following a recipe; it’s an experience steeped in love, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food with family and friends. In this recipe, I’ll share some secret tips that will ensure your modaks turn out as soft as cotton, free from cracks, and keep their delicious filling intact. You’ll learn how to make the perfect dough and filling while mastering the art of shaping these beautiful dumplings. So, let’s get started and create some unforgettable Ukdiche Modaks that will surely impress everyone at your next celebration!
Ingredients
- Rice flour: 2 cups
- Water: 1 cup
- Milk: 1 cup
- Fresh coconut (grated): 2 cups
- Jaggery: 1 cup
- Clarified butter (ghee): 2 tbsp
- Chopped cashews: 2 tbsp
- Rose petals: 1 tsp
- Poppy seeds: ½ tsp
- Cardamom powder: ¼ tsp
- Fresh malai (cream): 1 tbsp
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Flour
- Take Basmati or Ambemohar rice, wash it thoroughly, and drain. Let it dry completely before grinding it into a fine rice flour.
Step 2: Make the Filling (Saran) for Modak
- Now heat a kadai (wok) and add 1 tablespoon of ghee.
- Next add the grated fresh coconut, chopped cashews, and poppy seeds. Sauté for 2-4 minutes.
- Now add jaggery to the mixture and cook until it melts completely and the mixture thickens.
- Lastly, mix in dried rose petals, cardamom powder, and fresh malai. Stir well and switch off the flame.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- In a kadai, bring 1 cup of water and 1 cup of milk to a rolling boil with 1 teaspoon of ghee.
- Gradually add 2 cups of rice flour and mix well. Turn off the flame and cover the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Once it cools slightly, knead it into a soft dough.
Step 4: Shape the Modaks
- Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Dust it with rice flour.
- Make a dent in the center and use your thumb and fingers to spread it into a bowl shape.
- Place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center.
- Create pleats by folding the edges over the filling, bringing them together and pinching to seal at the top.
- Repeat the process to make more modaks.
Step 5: Steam the Modaks
- Now place a wet cloth on a plate or grease it with ghee.
- Dip each modak lightly in water and place them on a steamer plate.
- Steam for about 10 minutes on medium flame.
- Once done, remove the lid and take them out carefully.
Step 6: Serve
- Finally, serve the warm Authentic Ukdiche Modaks garnished with saffron and a drizzle of ghee on top.
Tips:
- Ensure that the rice flour is fine for a smooth texture.
- The filling should be slightly dry to prevent any jaggery syrup from leaking out during steaming.
- Using milk in the dough not only enhances the flavor but also gives a beautiful color and soft texture to the modaks.
- You can customize the filling by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
With these detailed steps and tips, you’re all set to create these delicious Ukdiche Modaks that are perfect for any celebration. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share these delightful sweets with your loved ones!
