Modaks are a traditional sweet offered to Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi. Typically made with rice flour and mawa (khoya), you can prepare a lighter, healthier version by skipping the mawa and using coconut and jaggery instead. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice flour

• 1 tsp ghee

• 1 cup water

• ½ cup grated coconut

• ½ cup jaggery (powdered or grated)

• ½ tsp cardamom powder

• A pinch of saffron (optional)

• Finely chopped dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios)

Method

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

• Heat water in a pan, add a little ghee, and then mix in the rice flour.

• Cook on low flame for about 8–10 minutes until it forms a soft, thick dough.

• Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2 – Make the Filling

• In another pan, heat a little ghee.

• Add coconut and jaggery, and cook until the jaggery melts and blends with the coconut.

• Mix in cardamom powder and chopped dry fruits. Let it cool.

Step 3 – Shape the Modaks

• Grease your palms with ghee.

• Take a portion of the rice flour dough, flatten it, and fill it with the coconut-jaggery mixture.

• Carefully shape it into a modak using your hands or a mould.

Step 4 – Steam the Modaks

• Place the shaped modaks in a steamer or over boiling water.

• Steam for about 10 minutes until cooked.

• Garnish with pistachios or other dry fruits of your choice.

Your soft, healthy, and delicious modaks are ready to serve!