Modak: Sweet Dumplings

Serves: Makes around 20 Modaks
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups Fresh Grated Coconut
• 1 cup Jaggery, grated or finely chopped
• 1 tsp. Cardamom Powder
• 1 tbsp. Poppy Seeds (optional)
• A pinch of Nutmeg (optional)

For the Dough:

• 2 cups Rice Flour
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tsp. Ghee (clarified butter)
• A pinch of Salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a pan, combine 2 cups of Fresh Grated Coconut and 1 cup of Jaggery. Cook on a medium flame until the mixture thickens and the jaggery melts completely. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
• Stir in 1 tsp. Cardamom Powder, 1 tbsp. Poppy Seeds, and a pinch of Nutmeg if using. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, set aside to cool.

2. Make the Dough:

• In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of Water to a boil with 1 tsp. Ghee and a pinch of Salt.
• Lower the flame and gradually add 2 cups of Rice Flour, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
• Cover the pot with a lid and let the dough cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and let the dough rest until it's cool enough to handle.

3. Shape the Modaks:

• Grease your palms with a little ghee for easier handling. Pinch a small ball from the dough and flatten it to form a small disc.
• Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling in the centre of the disc.
• Gently bring the edges together and pleat them to form a pinched top. Alternatively, use a modak mould if available.

4. Steam the Modaks:

• Prepare a steamer by boiling water in a large pot. Place the shaped modaks on a greased steamer tray or in an idli mould.
• Steam the modaks for 10-15 minutes or until they appear shiny and the outer shell is cooked.

5. Serve:

• Carefully remove the modaks with a spatula and arrange them on a serving dish.
• Serve warm as a divine offering or enjoy as a festive treat.

Modaks are not just a sweet; they're an emotion, a celebration of flavours and traditions. This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring that even as a beginner, you can experience the joy of creating and savouring these heavenly dumplings. Enjoy the process, cherish the flavours, and let the sweet journey of Indian cooking begin!