How to make modak for Gadesh chaturthi for 2 peoples?

Making modak for Ganesh Chaturthi is a cherished tradition. Here’s a simple recipe to make steamed modak (also known as Ukadiche Modak) for two people, which yields about 8-10 modaks.

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup grated fresh coconut (or desiccated coconut if fresh is not available)
• 1/4 cup jaggery (grated or powdered)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of nutmeg powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
• A few saffron strands (optional)

For the outer covering:

• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ghee
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat a pan on medium flame and add the ghee.
2. Once the ghee melts, add the grated coconut and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly dry.
3. Add the jaggery to the coconut and cook on low flame. Stir continuously until the jaggery melts and mixes well with the coconut.
4. Add cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, and saffron strands (if using). Mix well.
5. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken. Turn off the heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Outer Covering:

1. Boil water in a saucepan with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of ghee.
2. Once the water starts boiling, lower the flame and add the rice flour gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Mix well until the dough starts coming together. Cover the pan with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer the dough to a plate or a bowl and knead it while it’s still warm to make it smooth and pliable. If the dough feels dry, you can sprinkle some water and knead again.(Colours can also be use to make colourful Modak).

3. Shape and Fill the Modaks:

1. Divide the dough into small lemon-sized balls.
2. Grease your palms with a little ghee. Take one dough ball and flatten it into a small disc with your fingers, making the edges thinner than the center.
3. Place a small spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling in the center of the disc.
4. Gather the edges of the disc to form pleats and bring them together to seal the Modak at the top, forming a conical shap.

4. Steam the Modaks:

1. Prepare a steamer with water and grease the steaming plate or a banana leaf.
2. Place the Modaks on the greased plate, leaving some space between them.
3. Steam the Modaks for about 10-15 minutes on medium flame until they turn glossy.

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly made Modaks!