A Step-by-Step Guide To Make The Perfect Ukadiche Modak Recipe

Naivaidya refers to the food offerings that are made to Lord Ganesha during the festival. The word “Naivaidya” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Nivi” (to bow or present) and “Aidya” (food). It is a sacred ritual where devotees offer various dishes and delicacies to Lord Ganesha as a symbol of love, devotion, and respect.

Naivaidya holds significant importance in Ganeshutsav for several reasons. We all want the LORD GANESHA to have delicious things but delicious can be healthy too. Here are certain healthy Naivaidya recipes

Ukadiche Modak

During Ganesh Utsav, every household prepares the traditional Ukadiche Modak, a delicious treat loaded with taste and health. It’s made with fresh coconut, which gives quick energy and keeps our skin and hair healthy. Jaggery adds goodness with iron and other minerals, making it better than sugary chocolate bars with no health benefits. This Modak is a wholesome choice made with local and seasonal ingredients.

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, heat the water with a pinch of salt until it comes to a boil.
  
• Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the rice flour to the boiling water while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Mix well until the rice flour absorbs all the water and forms a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  
• In another pan, combine grated coconut and jaggery. Cook on low heat until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens slightly. Add cardamom powder, and chopped nuts and mix well. Turn off the heat and let the filling cool down.
  
• Take a small portion of the rice flour dough and shape it into a ball. If using a mold, grease it with ghee and press the dough into the mold to create a cavity.
  
• Place a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery filling into the cavity and seal the edges of the dough to form a modak shape. If not using a mold, you can shape the modak by hand and fix 1-2 saffron strands.
  
• Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling.
  
• Steam the modaks in a steamer for about 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked and firm.
  
• Once cooked, remove the modaks from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.
  
• Serve the delicious and healthy Ukadiche Modak as an offering to Lord Ganesha and enjoy them as a delightful treat during Ganesh Chaturthi!

Why Is Consuming Ukadiche Modak Is A Healthy Choice?

There are several reasons why consuming the traditional Maharashtrian recipe, Ukadiche Modak, is a healthy choice:

• Nutritious Filling: The filling of grated coconut, jaggery, and nuts provides essential nutrients like dietary fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, offering a well-rounded nutritional profile.

• Natural Sweeteners: Jaggery is a natural sweetener that adds sweetness to the modak without the harmful effects of refined sugar, making it a healthier option.

• Energy Boost: The combination of coconut and jaggery provides a quick and sustained energy boost, making it an excellent choice for a festive treat.

• Digestive Benefits: The fiber-rich coconut aids in better digestion and nutrient absorption, promoting gut health.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Coconut and jaggery are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals and support overall health.

• Lower in Fat: As Ukadiche Modak is steamed and not fried, it contains less fat compared to other deep-fried sweets.

• Skin and Hair Health: The natural goodness of coconut contributes to healthy skin and hair, thanks to its nourishing properties.

• Local and Seasonal Ingredients: Using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients ensures freshness and supports sustainable eating practices.

Overall, Ukadiche Modak is a delightful and nutritious treat that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides health benefits, making it a healthier choice during festive celebrations.