Ukadiche Modak Recipe: How to Make Modak at Home

Modak Recipe For Ganesh Festival: Ukadiche Modak is a traditional Maharashtrian sweet, especially made during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. These steamed rice dumplings filled with sweet coconut and jaggery are a divine treat! Here’s an easy recipe for making modak at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice flour (made by washing, drying, and grinding rice)
• 1 cup sugar or jaggery
• 1 coconut (grated)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
• Oil
• ½ cup poppy seeds powder (optional)

For Filling (Saran):

1. In a pan, add grated coconut and sugar or jaggery. Cook on low heat.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan.
3. Once it starts to cook, add 1 tablespoon rice flour and poppy seeds powder.
4. Mix in the cardamom powder and stir well.
5. Cook for a few more minutes until the filling is ready. Remove from heat.

For Dough (Ukad):

1. Boil water equal to the amount of rice flour you’re using.
2. Add salt to taste, 2 tablespoons ghee, and ½ teaspoon oil to the boiling water.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the rice flour. Mix well.
4. Cover and steam for 2 minutes on low heat.
5. Once off the heat, knead the hot dough until smooth, adding water or oil if necessary, to make it soft and pliable.

Making Modak:

1. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten them into a thin disc using your hands.
2. Shape the disc into a bowl and fill it with the prepared coconut-jaggery filling.
3. Pinch the edges of the dough at intervals to form pleats and gather them at the top to shape the modak.
4. Dip the modak lightly in water and place them on a greased cloth or banana leaf in a steamer.
5. Steam the modaks for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve the modaks warm with a drizzle of ghee on top.

Tips:

• Always steam the modaks over medium heat to avoid cracking.
• Use fresh coconut for a better taste.
• You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar/jaggery according to your preference.

Conclusion:

Making Ukadiche Modak at home is easier than it seems. Follow this step-by-step guide for perfect, soft, and flavorful modaks. Whether for Ganesh Chaturthi or any special occasion, these traditional modaks will be a hit with your family. Enjoy the delicate taste of this festive sweet!

This recipe will help you make the best modak at home, using ingredients available in your kitchen. Happy cooking!