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Ukadiche Modak

In India, Ukadiche Modak is considered to be the ultimate treat of the festivals because it is known that Lord Ganesha loves this sweet the most. It is a kind of Indian sweetened dumpling, soft on the outside, nutty, fragrant
Prep Time 10 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 peoples
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Indian, North Eastern

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
For the Outer Dough
  • ½ cup cashew nuts finely ground into a powder
  • 2 tbsp clarified butter
  • ½ cup chilled milk adjust as needed
  • ½ cup dried coconut grated
  • ½ tsp cardamom powder
For the Filling
  • ½ cup cashew nuts finely chopped or powdered
  • ½ cup almonds finely chopped or powdered
  • 1 –2 tbsp sweet rose jam rose petal preserve

Method
 

Method
    Prepare the Outer Shell:
    1. In a bowl, mix rice flour, cashew nut powder, sugar, dried coconut, and cardamom powder. Heat milk with ghee and gradually add it into the mixture, kneading gently until a soft, pliable dough forms. Keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
    Make the Filling:
    1. In another pan, heat ghee and lightly roast the chopped cashews and almonds. Mix in powdered sugar and sweet rose jam until everything blends into a fragrant, nutty mixture. Set aside to cool.
    Shape the Modaks:
    1. Take a small portion of dough, flatten it, and place a spoonful of filling in the center. Gently shape it into a dumpling using your hands or a modak mould. Seal tightly at the top to create the classic pointed shape.
    Steam to Perfection:
    1. Place the modaks in a steamer lined with banana leaves or parchment paper. Steam for 10–12 minutes until they turn slightly glossy.
    Serve & Celebrate:
    1. Enjoy warm Ukadiche Modaks as a divine festive treat—or surprise your American friends with “Indian-style sweet dumplings” that taste like a celebration in every bite.
    Customization Ideas
    1. Nut-Free Version: Skip cashews and almonds, use only coconut and rose preserve for a lighter filling.
    2. Jaggery Sweetness: Replace powdered sugar with jaggery powder for a more traditional flavor.
    3. Chocolate Lovers: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the filling for a fusion twist.
    4. Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of ghee and plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly modak.
    5. Kids’ Favorite: Add colorful sprinkles or drizzle melted white chocolate over steamed modaks before serving.
    How to Serve
    1. Warm with a drizzle of clarified butter on top.
    2. As a festive dessert during Ganesh Chaturthi.
    3. For dinner parties, serve as a unique Indian sweet dumpling — your American friends will be amazed by the flavors.

    Notes

    FAQs

    Q1. What does Ukadiche Modak taste like?
    It tastes like a soft rice dumpling with a nutty, coconut, and floral sweet filling — rich, aromatic, and melt-in-your-mouth.
    Q2. Where can I find rose petal jam  in the U.S.?
    Gulkand is usually available at Indian grocery stores or online (Amazon, Patel Brothers, etc.).
    Q3. Can I make Modak without a mold?
    Yes. Traditionally, Modaks are hand-shaped with pleats. But moulds make it easier, especially if you’re trying them for the first time.
    Q4. Is this gluten-free?
    Yes, since rice flour is used for the shell, Ukadiche Modak is naturally gluten-free.

    Nutrition (Per 1 Mini Modak, approx.)
    • Calories: ~110 kcal
    • Carbohydrates: 15 g
    • Protein: 2 g
    • Fat: 5 g
    • Fiber: 2 g
    • Sugar: 7 g