Jaggery Coconut Deep Fried Modak Recipe

If you’re a fan of traditional Indian sweets, then jaggery coconut deep fried modak is a treat you won’t want to miss. Often associated with the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, these sweet dumplings are not only delicious but also hold cultural significance. Let’s enjoy the delightful world of modaks and discover how you can make this beloved sweet at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500 grams all purpose flour
• 2 tablespoon hot oil/ghee
• Water as required

• For the Filling:
  • 2 cup grated coconut
  • 1 cup jaggery, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1 teaspoon crushed almonds
  • 1 teaspoon crushed cashews
  • 2 tablespoon ghee
• For Frying:
  • Ghee for deep frying

Step by Step Recipe

Preparing the Dough

1. Heat Oil: In a pan, heat oil until it is very hot.
2. Add Oil to Flour: Gradually add the hot oil to the flour and mix it well.
3. Form Dough: Once slightly cooled, knead the mixture into a smooth dough using water.

Making the Filling

1. Heat Ghee: In another pan, heat 2 tablespoon of ghee.
2. Add Coconut and Jaggery: Add the grated coconut and jaggery to the pan. Cook until the jaggery melts and combines well with the coconut.
3. Flavoring: Add cardamom powder, dry fruits and mix well. Cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.

Shaping the Modaks

1. Divide Dough: Divide the dough into small balls.
2. Shape Modaks: Flatten each ball into a small disc. Place a spoonful of filling in the center and carefully bring the edges together to form a peak, resembling a modak.

Deep Frying the Sweet Dumplings

1. Heat Ghee: In a deep frying pan, heat ghee on medium heat.
2. Fry Modaks: Fry the sweet dumplings until they turn golden brown and crispy. Ensure they are fried evenly by turning them occasionally.
3. Drain Oil: Remove them from ghee. Make sure to drain excess ghee.

Tips for Perfection

Choosing the Right Ingredients

• Jaggery: Ensure the jaggery is fresh and free from impurities.
• Coconut: Freshly grated coconut enhances the taste significantly.

Perfecting the Dough

• Consistency: The dough should be smooth and pliable. If it’s too dry, add a little warm water.
• Kneading: Knead the dough well to avoid cracks when shaping the dumplings.

Frying Tips

• Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent medium heat to ensure even frying.
• Batch Frying: Fry the sweet dumplings in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm and Fresh: Modaks are best enjoyed warm, right after frying.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of ghee for added richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling: Avoid overstuffing the dumplings, as this can cause them to burst while frying.
• Under-kneading Dough: Ensure the dough is kneaded well to prevent cracks.
• High Heat: Do not fry on high heat as the dumplings may brown quickly on the outside but remain uncooked inside.

History and Origin

Modaks have a rich history rooted in Indian culture, particularly in the state of Maharashtra. They are especially significant during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, as they are believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet. Traditionally, steamed dumplings called “ukadiche modak” are offered to the deity, but variations like the deep-fried version are also popular.

Health Benefits

• Jaggery: Rich in iron and aids in digestion.
• Coconut: High in dietary fiber and provides essential minerals.

Variations

Steamed

• Instead of deep frying, steam the dumplings for a healthier version.
• Also you can use rice flour instead of all purpose flour (Maida) to make it Gluten-free and easy to digest.

Chocolate

• Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the filling for a modern twist.

Dry Fruits

• Incorporate chopped dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and raisins into the filling for added richness and texture.

Regional Cuisines

Maharashtra

• Known for the traditional steamed modak, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi.

Southern India

• Variants like kozhukattai are popular, with slight differences in filling and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use alternative sweeteners?

• Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut sugar or palm sugar.

How long can I store sweet dumplings?

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Refrigerate to extend shelf life.

Can these be made vegan?

• Yes, substitute ghee with coconut oil or any plant-based oil.

What is the best oil for frying modaks?

• Use oils with a high smoke point like sunflower oil or canola oil.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

• Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, though the texture will be different.

To know more about modaks click here.

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