Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Filling (Saran)

   In a pan, combine freshly grated coconut and grated jaggery. Cook on medium heat until the jaggery melts and the mixture comes together (about 5-7 mins).

2. 2

   Flavor the Filling

   Do not overcook, or the jaggery will become hard. Add cardamom powder, a pinch of nutmeg, and a spoonful of ghee. Mix and set aside to cool.

3. 3

   Boil Water for Dough

   In a wide pan, boil 1 cup of water with a pinch of salt and half a teaspoon of ghee.

4. 4

   Add Rice Flour

   Once the water boils, lower the heat completely. Gradually add 1 cup of fine rice flour while stirring continuously.

5. 5

   Steam the Flour

   Mix quickly to prevent lumps. Cover the pan with a lid and let the flour steam in the residual heat for 3-4 minutes.

6. 6

   Knead the Dough

   Transfer the hot flour to a large plate. Wet your palms with cold water (or apply a little oil) and knead the hot dough vigorously until it is completely smooth and crack-free.

7. 7

   Form a Cup

   Pinch a small lemon-sized ball of dough. Using your thumbs, press the center and thin out the edges to form a small cup or bowl shape.

8. 8

   Stuff the Modak

   Place a small spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling into the center of the cup.

9. 9

   Create the Pleats

   Pinch the edges of the cup to form 5 or 6 pleats (like a flower). Bring all the pleats together at the top and seal them tightly into a point.

10. 10

    Prepare the Steamer

    Grease a steamer plate or line it with a wet muslin cloth (or turmeric leaf/banana leaf for aroma).

11. 11

    Steam the Modaks

    Place the shaped Modaks on the plate. Steam on medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes.

12. 12

    Serve

    The Modaks will look slightly shiny and translucent when cooked. Serve warm, generously drizzled with pure melted ghee.