Ukadiche Modak ( Kozhukatai)

Overview Cooktime Ingredients Instructions Notes

Overview

Modak, also known as Kozhukattai is a cherished sweet treat, particularly enjoyed during Ganesh Chaturthi. This Kozhukaatai recipe uses rice flour for the outer shell and palm sugar for the sweet stuffing, making it healthier and equally delicious. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to make Kozhukattai that will help you create this festive favourite.

What is Ukadiche Modak?

Ukadiche Modak, or Kozhukattai, is an iconic Indian sweet made from steamed rice flour and filled with a sweet mixture of coconut and jaggery. This traditional delicacy is not only a festival favourite but also a beloved dish for special occasions. Understanding how to make Kozhukattai properly ensures that your modaks are perfectly soft and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Outer Dough:

1 cup of Rice Flour
1 cup of Water
1 tsp Ghee (Add to cart )
A pinch of Salt

For the Filling:

½ cup Palm Sugar (Add to cart )
1 cup Fresh Grated Coconut
1 tsp Cardamom Powder
2 tbsp Ghee – for roasting
Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, raisins) – optional, for garnishing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat 2 tbsp ghee in a pan on low flame.
Add the freshly grated coconut and sauté by adding grated palm sugar and stir continuously until the sugar melts and combines with the coconut, creating a sweet, moist mixture
Add cardamom powder and chopped nuts (if using), mix well, and turn off the heat. Let this filling cool down.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice Flour Dough

In a separate saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt and 1 tsp ghee, and by reducing the flame to low, add the rice flour gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Keep stirring until the mixture forms a soft dough. Turn off the heat and cover the dough for 5 minutes to let it steam.
Once slightly cooled, knead the dough gently to ensure it's soft and smooth. You can add a little warm water or ghee if the dough feels dry.

Step 3: Shape the Modaks

Take small portions of the dough and roll them into smooth balls.
Add a spoonful of the palm sugar-coconut filling in the centre of the disc.
Carefully gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together at the top to shape the modak. You can use modak moulds, if available, for a uniform shape.

Step 4: Steam the Modaks

Grease a steaming plate with ghee and place the modaks on it.
Steam the modaks for about 10-12 minutes in a steamer or an idli cooker.
Once cooked, they will turn slightly translucent. Remove them from the steamer and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Health Benefits of Using Palm Sugar

Palm sugar is an excellent alternative to refined sugar because it is loaded with minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron.
It helps regulate blood sugar levels better than refined sugar.
Being less processed, palm sugar retains its nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthier option.
By using palm sugar in this modak recipe, you are not only enhancing the flavour but also adding a touch of natural goodness.

Expert Tips :

Ensure the dough for the outer cover is soft and pliable. If too stiff, add a little water.
Seal the edges well while shaping to prevent the filling from leaking during steaming.
Experiment with different sweeteners or flavours for variations of the recipe for Kozhukattai.

Mastering the Ukadiche Modak recipe allows you to enjoy this traditional delicacy anytime. With the steps outlined above, you'll know exactly how to make Kozhukattai that's perfect for festivals or special occasions. For those searching for the ideal recipe for Kozhukattai, this guide provides all the necessary details to create these delightful treats.