Ukdiche Modak 😋

Ukdiche Modak is a traditional Indian sweet, particularly popular during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Here’s a recipe for making Ukdiche Modak:

Ingredients

*For the Filling:*
- 1 cup grated fresh coconut
- 1 cup jaggery (grated or chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped cashews (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)

*For the Dough:*
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
- A pinch of salt

Instructions

#### Preparing the Filling:
1. **Heat a Pan**: Place a non-stick pan on medium heat.
2. **Add Coconut and Jaggery**: Add the grated coconut and jaggery to the pan. Stir continuously until the jaggery melts and combines well with the coconut.
3. **Add Cardamom Powder**: Add the cardamom powder, and mix well.
4. **Optional Additions**: Add the chopped cashews, almonds, and poppy seeds if using. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let it cool.

#### Preparing the Dough:
1. **Boil Water**: In a pan, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt and ghee.
2. **Add Rice Flour**: Gradually add the rice flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. **Cook the Dough**: Once the mixture starts to thicken and come together, cover and cook for a few minutes on low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. **Knead the Dough**: While still warm, knead the dough well until it is smooth and pliable. If it's too sticky, add a little rice flour; if too dry, add a bit of warm water.

#### Assembling the Modak:
1. **Shape the Dough**: Divide the dough into small balls. Flatten each ball into a small disc or cup shape using your fingers or a rolling pin.
2. **Add Filling**: Place a small amount of the coconut-jaggery filling in the center of each disc.
3. **Seal the Modak**: Carefully gather the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching and twisting to seal it into a rounded or peak-shaped modak. You can also use a modak mold to shape them if available.
4. **Steam the Modak**: Arrange the modaks in a steamer lined with a cloth or banana leaf. Steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until they become firm and glossy.

Allow the modaks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Ukdiche Modak!