Modak, a cherished treat from Maharashtra, India, transcends beyond a mere sweet dumpling to a symbol of joy and festivity, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi. This reimagined version elevates the classic modak by infusing it with the luxurious flavors of pistachio and saffron, while retaining its soulful mixture of coconut and jaggery. The result is a visually stunning, aromatic, and flavorful delight that offers a taste of tradition with a modern twist. The creamy texture of coconut, the nutty essence of pistachio, and the subtle warmth of saffron come together in a harmony of flavors, promising a sensory journey that is both nostalgic and novel.

Ingredients

Serving Size: Makes 20 modaks

From Your Pantry

• 1 cup Fine Rice Flour
• 1 cup Grated Coconut (Fresh or Frozen)
• 1 cup Jaggery, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom Powder
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1 tablespoon Ghee
• Pinch of Salt

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 1/2 cup Pistachios, finely ground
• A few strands of Saffron
• 2 tablespoons Water (for saffron infusion)

Preparation

1. Saffron Infusion: Soak the saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for 15 minutes until the milk is vibrant yellow and aromatic.
2. Dough Preparation: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour with the saffron-infused milk and a pinch of salt. Gradually add warm water while kneading to form a smooth, pliable dough. Cover and set aside.
3. Filling: Heat a pan over medium flame, add ghee and jaggery, and stir until the jaggery melts. Add the grated coconut, cardamom powder, and ground pistachios. Cook until the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
4. Shaping Modaks: Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it to form a disc. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center, and pleat the edges of the dough around the filling. Bring the pleats together and seal the top.
5. Steam Cooking: Arrange the modaks in a steamer, ensuring they don't touch each other. Steam over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they appear glossy.
6. Serving: Allow the modaks to cool slightly before serving. They can be garnished with extra ground pistachios for added appeal.

Expert Tips

• Ensure the dough is soft and pliable to avoid cracks during shaping.
• The filling should be thick and not too moist to prevent leaking.
• Experiment with different molds or shapes to add a personal touch to your modaks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Coconut-Pistachio Delight Modaks as a dessert or a special treat during festive occasions. They pair beautifully with a cup of masala chai or a light saffron-infused milk for a truly indulgent experience. The combination of flavors and textures makes these modaks a memorable treat that invites you to savor each bite slowly.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 4g
• Allergens: Milk, Nuts

We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family and to explore your own variations. Whether it's trying different fillings or experimenting with the dough, each modification adds a unique touch to this traditional delicacy. Cooking is a journey of discovery, and we hope this recipe inspires you to create and enjoy the art of making modaks.