Talniche Modak means Fried Modaks made out of wheat flour dough with a filling of coconut and jaggery with aromatic ingredients oftenly offered as a prasad offering to Lord Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi and Ganesh Chaturthi.
In some Maharashtrian households, there’s a sweet belief connected to Ganesh Chaturthi and offerings to Lord Ganesha.
It is said that:
🌺 1 Modaks represent the Bhau (brother)
🌹 2 Karanjis represent the Bahin (sister)
Why this combination? -
The 11 modaks symbolize strength, responsibility,...
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Heat ghee in a pan and lightly roast the poppy seeds.
Add grated coconut and jaggery. Sauté on low-medium heat until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens.
Stir in cardamom powder and chopped nuts. Let the filling cool completely.
In a large bowl, mix wheat flour, semolina, and salt.
Add hot ghee and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
Gradually add water and knead into a stiff, firm dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 8-10 minutes.
Knead the rested dough again for a minute. Divide it into small, lemon-sized balls .
Roll each ball into a thin, small circle about 3–4 inches in diameter.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center. Collect the edges of the circle to form pleats.
Bring all the pleats together at the top and seal firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
Don't forget to make Karanjis.
Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan on medium heat.
Once hot, reduce the flame to low-medium. Carefully slide in the modaks in batches.
Fry slowly, turning them occasionally until they are a uniform golden-brown and crispy.
Drain on a strainer or kitchen towel.
Fry the Karanjis as well.
After frying, let them rest, they crisp up more.
Adding hot ghee to the flour is the secret to a flaky texture.
Avoid making the dough too soft, smooth yet tight dough prevents the modaks from absorbing excess oil.
Don’t overfill, modaks may burst while frying.
Oil should be warm, not too hot, otherwise they brown fast but stay raw inside.
Fry slowly till golden and crisp. Keep turning gently for even color.
Why is Karanji included alongside Modak?
Karanji symbolizes the feminine counterpart to Modak's masculine representation, ensuring gender balance and harmony in the offering.
What is the significance of Modak and Karanji in Maharashtrian tradition?
Modak and Karanji are affectionately referred to as brother and sister, symbolizing the bond and completeness of the offering to Lord Ganesha.
How can I ensure the Modaks have a crispy crust?
Adding warm ghee to the flour while preparing the dough ensures a flaky and crispy texture.
What is the best way to prevent the filling from leaking during frying?
Seal the pleats firmly by brushing some oil at the edges and at the top of the Modak to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
Can I use oil instead of ghee for frying?
Yes, you can use oil instead of ghee for frying, but ghee adds a richer flavor to the Modaks.
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