- August 2, 2025
Modak Recipe | Traditional Sweet for Ganesh Chaturthi
When it comes to Indian sweets, few desserts are as symbolic and divine as the modak recipe. Believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite, modaks are an inseparable part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations across India. The traditional modak recipe is prepared with love and devotion, especially in Maharashtra and South India.
From the steamed ukadiche modak recipe to the crispy fried modak recipe, every variety has its own fan following. Whether you are a beginner trying a simple modak recipe step by step or experimenting with flavors like chocolate modak recipe or kesar modak recipe, the joy of making these dumplings at home is unmatched.
The Cultural Significance of Modaks
The authentic modak recipe has deep cultural roots. In Hindu tradition, modak symbolizes prosperity, wisdom, and happiness. During Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees offer 21 modaks to Lord Ganesha as naivedya.
In Maharashtra, the modak recipe Maharashtrian style is steamed with rice flour and stuffed with jaggery and coconut. In contrast, the modak recipe South Indian style may include cardamom, ghee, or even chana dal.
Different Types of Modak Recipe
Ukadiche Modak Recipe (Steamed) – Soft dumplings made with rice flour and stuffed with jaggery-coconut filling.
Fried Modak Recipe – Crunchy, golden modaks deep-fried for extra richness.
Simple Modak Recipe Without Mould – Hand-shaped, perfect for beginners.
Modak Recipe With Mould – Ensures uniform, professional-looking modaks.
Modak Recipe With Jaggery – Traditional, using melted jaggery and coconut.
Modak Recipe Without Jaggery – Uses sugar, dates, or alternatives.
Modak Recipe With Rice Flour – The classic steamed version.
Modak Recipe With Wheat Flour – A healthy twist for everyday cooking.
Chocolate Modak Recipe – A fusion treat loved by kids.
Coconut Modak Recipe – Uses desiccated or fresh coconut filling.
Dry Fruit Modak Recipe – Rich filling of nuts and khoya.
Kesar Modak Recipe – Infused with saffron for a royal touch.
Healthy Modak Recipe – Uses jaggery, millet flour, or less ghee for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients for Modak Recipe
For the Outer Dough (Ukadiche Modak):
2 cups rice flour
2 ½ cups water
1 tsp ghee
A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
1 ½ cups grated coconut (fresh)
1 cup jaggery (grated)
1 tbsp ghee
½ tsp cardamom powder
1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
A few saffron strands (optional)
For Variations:
Wheat flour for fried modaks
Cocoa powder or melted chocolate for chocolate modaks
Khoya and nuts for dry fruit modaks
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Modak
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat ghee in a pan.
Add grated coconut and jaggery.
Stir until jaggery melts and blends with coconut.
Add cardamom powder, poppy seeds, and saffron strands.
Cook until mixture is slightly sticky.
Let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Boil water with a pinch of salt and 1 tsp ghee.
Add rice flour gradually, stirring to avoid lumps.
Cover and let it steam for 2 minutes.
Transfer to a plate, knead into a smooth dough while warm.
(For modak recipe with wheat flour, knead wheat flour instead.)
Step 3: Shape the Modaks
Take small dough balls.
Flatten into small discs with edges thinner than the center.
Place 1 spoon of filling in the center.
Pleat the edges and bring together to form a modak shape.
(For modak recipe with mould, simply press dough and filling inside mould for a perfect shape.)
Step 4: Cook the Modaks
Place shaped modaks in a greased steamer.
Steam for 10–12 minutes until glossy.
(For fried modak recipe, deep fry until golden brown.)
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with saffron strands or ghee.
Offer as prasad or enjoy warm.
Tips for Perfect Modak Recipe
Use hot water for kneading rice flour – ensures smooth, crack-free dough.
Don’t overcook filling – it should remain moist.
Grease your palms with ghee before shaping.
Steam on medium flame – too high heat may crack modaks.
Experiment with fillings – try chocolate, dates, or dry fruits.
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Healthy Modak Recipe Ideas
Replace jaggery with dates for natural sweetness.
Use wheat flour or millet flour instead of rice flour.
Reduce ghee for a lighter version.
Add flaxseeds or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
Nutritional Value (Per Steamed Modak)
Calories: ~120
Carbohydrates: High (from rice flour & jaggery)
Protein: Moderate (from coconut)
Fats: Low (steamed, minimal ghee)
(For fried modak recipe, calories are higher due to oil.)
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with melted ghee.
Pair with saffron milk during festivals.
Offer as naivedya to Lord Ganesha.
Store fried modaks in an airtight jar for 2–3 days.
FAQs on Modak Recipe
Q1. Can I make modaks without a mould?
Yes, the modak recipe without mould involves shaping by hand, just like our ancestors did.
Q2. Which is healthier — steamed or fried modak?
The ukadiche modak recipe (steamed) is healthier, while the fried modak recipe is richer and crispier.
Q3. Can beginners make modaks easily?
Yes, the modak recipe for beginners is simple and guided step by step.
Q4. Can I use sugar instead of jaggery?
Yes, but the modak recipe with jaggery is more authentic and flavorful.
Q5. How can I add modern twists?
Try chocolate modak recipe, kesar modak recipe, or dry fruit modak recipe for exciting variations.
Interesting Facts
The modak recipe is not just a sweet; it’s a spiritual offering and a symbol of devotion. From the soft, melt-in-the-mouth ukadiche modak recipe to the crunchy fried modak recipe, every version brings joy during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Whether you make the modak recipe Maharashtrian style, explore the modak recipe South Indian style, or add creative twists like coconut modak recipe or chocolate modak recipe, the results are always festive and delightful.
For health-conscious food lovers, the healthy modak recipe with wheat flour, jaggery, or millet flour is a guilt-free way to celebrate.
So this year, bring home the taste of tradition and happiness by preparing the best modak recipe — a sweet treat that’s as divine as it is delicious.
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