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Tags and nutritional info are auto-generated and may be inaccurate. Always check the full ingredient list before cooking.
Heat water in a pan over medium flame. Add ghee and sugar. Stir until hot.
Turn off the flame, add dry rice flour, and mix thoroughly to remove lumps.
Cover with a lid and let it rest to trap the steam and cool slightly.
Grind roasted gram and cardamom pods into a fine powder and set aside.
Pulse fresh coconut pieces into a coarse mix.
Heat a pan, add sesame seeds and poppy seeds, and dry roast for 1–2 minutes. Add ghee.
Add coarsened coconut to the toasted seeds and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
Add grated jaggery and water. Cook on low heat until the jaggery melts completely.
Stir in the ground roasted gram-cardamom powder and chopped almonds. Mix until thickened.
Uncover the warm rice dough mixture.
Knead thoroughly into a smooth, soft dough. Moisten hands with water if needed.
Grease hands with ghee or water. Take a small portion of dough and roll into a ball.
Flatten the ball and press edges outward to form a cup-like shape.
Place coconut filling inside. Draw edges upward and pinch to form a Modak peak.
Use a spoon to press vertical indentations for the classic Modak design.
Alternatively, use a Modak mold to shape the Modaks.
Grease a steamer plate and arrange the shaped Modaks on it.
Top each Modak with saffron strands (optional).
Heat water in a kadhai or steamer. Place the steamer plate inside, cover, and steam for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before removing.
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If the dough feels dry, moisten your hands with water while kneading.
Use fresh grated coconut for a more authentic taste.
Can I use jaggery instead of sugar in the dough?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with jaggery in the dough for a richer flavor.
How do I prevent the Modaks from cracking?
Ensure the dough is soft and smooth. Moisten your hands with water while shaping if needed.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of a Modak mold?
You can shape the Modaks by hand using the traditional method.
How do I store leftover Modaks?
Store leftover Modaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

I’m Rajani, a passionate cook with over 15 years of experience creating delicious, approachable dishes. My love for food began in childhood, inspired by watching Sanjeev Kapoor’s Khana Khazana with my mom and helping her in the kitchen. On The Gourmet’s Hut, I share tried-and-tested authentic Indian recipes and quick microwave mug cake recipes perfect for busy days. My goal is to make cooking simple, flavorful, and fun—because food brings people together and every meal should create memories.
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