Modakams for Ganesh Chathurthi

Modakams, also known as Modaks, are sweet dumplings that are traditionally prepared during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi in the Iyer style. They are offered to Lord Ganesha as a part of the celebrations. Here's a simple recipe to make Iyer-style Modakams:

Ingredients:

For the Outer Covering (Rice Flour Dough):

• 1 cup rice flour

• 1 cup water

• A pinch of salt

• 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup freshly grated coconut

• 1 cup jaggery (grated or powdered)

• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

• 1 tablespoon ghee

• A few chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) - optional

Instructions:

• Prepare the Outer Covering (Rice Flour Dough): a. In a saucepan, bring one cup of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of ghee to the water. b. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the rice flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. c. Mix the rice flour thoroughly until it forms a smooth dough-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool.

• Prepare the Filling: a. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the grated coconut and sauté it for a couple of minutes until it becomes slightly aromatic. b. Add the jaggery to the coconut and continue stirring until the jaggery melts and combines well with the coconut. c. Stir in the cardamom powder and chopped nuts (if using). Mix everything well and turn off the heat. Allow the filling to cool down.

• Shaping the Modakams: a. Take a small portion of the rice flour dough and roll it into a smooth ball. b. Flatten the ball into a small disc shape using your fingers or a rolling pin, creating a small cup-like depression in the center. c. Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling into the depression. d. Carefully gather the edges of the rice flour disc to form a pleated cone shape, enclosing the filling. Seal the edges firmly.

• Steam the Modakams: a. Grease a steamer plate or idli plate with ghee to prevent sticking. b. Arrange the prepared Modakams on the greased plate and steam them for about 10-15 minutes or until the outer covering becomes firm and cooked.

• Offer to Lord Ganesha and Serve: a. Once the Modakams are ready, offer them as prasad (offering) to Lord Ganesha. b. Serve the delicious Iyer-style Modakams to family and friends as a sweet treat to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi.

Enjoy the delectable Modakams and the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi!