Chocolate Modak Recipe
Chocolate Modak Recipe
Chocolate Modak Recipe Introduction:
Modak, a traditional Indian sweet often made during Ganesh Chaturthi, is typically filled with a mixture of coconut and jaggery. In recent years, variations of modak have emerged, blending contemporary flavors with this ancient delicacy. One such popular variation is the Chocolate Modak. Combining the richness of chocolate with the softness of modak, it offers a modern twist while maintaining the essence of this beloved sweet.
The chocolate modak is ideal for those who want to enjoy something familiar with a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply craving a special treat, this modak recipe promises to delight both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients like chocolate, milk powder, and sugar.
Chocolate Modak Recipe: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Indian Delicacy
Modak, a beloved sweet in Indian cuisine, especially during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, has a special place in the hearts of people. Traditionally made with coconut and jaggery filling, wrapped in a soft rice flour dough, Modaks are offered to Lord Ganesha as a symbol of devotion and love. While the traditional version of Modak is adored for its simplicity and authenticity, the world of sweets is always evolving, and what better way to elevate this classic than with chocolate?
Imagine the combination of rich, indulgent chocolate with the soft, pillowy dough of a Modak—truly a dessert lover’s dream. This Chocolate Modak recipe brings a modern, decadent twist to the traditional favorite, making it perfect for those who crave the perfect balance between chocolate and traditional Indian sweets.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you step by step on how to make Chocolate Modak, a treat that is sure to delight your family and friends during the festive season, or any time you’re in the mood for something sweet and unique!
What is a Modak?
A Modak is a traditional Indian sweet dumpling, usually made from rice flour or wheat flour dough, filled with a mixture of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. It is often shaped into a small, pointed mound, representing Lord Ganesha’s favorite delicacy.
While coconut Modak is the most common variant, there are numerous regional variations across India, some using dry fruits or milk-based fillings. In Maharashtra, Modaks are deeply associated with Ganesh Chaturthi, a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. During this time, Modaks are made in large quantities and offered as prasad (holy offering) to the deity.
However, the recipe we’re going to explore today takes a departure from the traditional filling. With chocolate as the main ingredient, this variation brings together the best of both worlds—the rich flavors of chocolate and the traditional, beloved Modak shape.
Ingredients for Chocolate Modak
To make this indulgent Chocolate Modak, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The recipe is simple yet yields a stunningly delicious result, combining the textures of chocolate with the softness of Modak dough.
For the Chocolate Filling:
200g dark chocolate (or milk chocolate if you prefer it sweeter)
2 tablespoons fresh cream
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
For the Modak Dough:
1 cup rice flour (this is the main ingredient for the soft, smooth dough)
1/2 cup water (adjust as needed for the right consistency)
1/4 cup sugar (optional, for slightly sweet dough)
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (for a lovely aroma)
1/2 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
A pinch of salt
For the Modak Mold:
Modak mold (optional, but it helps shape the Modaks perfectly)
Step-by-Step Chocolate Modak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Filling
Chop the chocolate: Start by chopping the dark chocolate into small pieces. This helps the chocolate melt evenly and quickly.
Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the chopped chocolate, butter, and cream. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwave in short bursts (10-15 seconds), stirring in between until the chocolate melts completely.
Add flavor: Once the chocolate is melted, add the vanilla extract and mix well. The chocolate filling should be smooth, creamy, and glossy. Let the mixture cool for a bit to thicken slightly. You want it to be soft but not runny.
Set aside: Once the chocolate filling is ready, set it aside to cool further and firm up, as this will make it easier to stuff into the Modak.
Step 2: Prepare the Modak Dough
Heat water: In a non-stick pan, add water and bring it to a boil. Add the sugar, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir to dissolve the sugar completely.
Add rice flour: Gradually add the rice flour to the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens and starts to come together, reduce the heat and cook it for another 2-3 minutes while stirring. The dough should be smooth and free of lumps.
Add ghee: Once the dough has come together, add ghee to it. Stir well until the dough becomes soft and smooth. Turn off the heat and let the dough cool down for a few minutes until it’s warm but not too hot to handle.
Knead the dough: After the dough has cooled slightly, knead it with your hands for a minute or two. The dough should be soft, smooth, and pliable, like playdough. If it’s too sticky, you can dust your hands with a little rice flour.
Step 3: Shape the Chocolate Modaks
Grease the mold (if using): Lightly grease your Modak mold with a bit of ghee or oil to prevent the dough from sticking. If you don’t have a Modak mold, you can shape them by hand.
Divide the dough: Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions. Take one portion and roll it into a smooth ball. Then, using your thumb and fingers, press the dough into a small cup shape (like a bowl) with a slightly thicker edge.
Fill with chocolate: Once the dough is shaped, take a small spoonful of the chocolate filling and place it in the center of the dough cup. Gently seal the dough around the filling, pinching the top together to form a peak. The Modak should now resemble a small, teardrop-shaped dumpling.
Repeat: Repeat this process with the remaining dough and chocolate filling. Ensure that each Modak is properly sealed so the chocolate doesn’t leak out during steaming.
Step 4: Steam the Chocolate Modaks
Prepare the steamer: Heat water in a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack. Bring the water to a boil.
Place the Modaks: Place the shaped Modaks on a lightly greased plate or steaming tray. Ensure there’s enough space between each Modak to avoid them sticking to each other during steaming.
Steam the Modaks: Place the plate of Modaks into the steamer, cover, and steam for about 10-12 minutes. The Modaks should be firm, soft to the touch, and cooked through. You’ll notice the dough turns slightly glossy after steaming.
Remove and cool: Once done, remove the Modaks from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. The chocolate filling should be soft and gooey on the inside, contrasting beautifully with the soft, chewy outer dough.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chocolate Modak
Consistency of the dough: The rice flour dough needs to be smooth and pliable. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a little more water. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more rice flour to get the right consistency.
Chocolate filling variations: While dark chocolate is the traditional choice, you can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of both. Add-ins like chopped nuts, caramel, or a pinch of sea salt can give your chocolate filling an extra depth of flavor.
Steaming tip: If you don’t have a steamer, you can easily create one by using a large pot and placing a steaming rack or colander inside. Just make sure the water doesn’t touch the Modaks while steaming.
Hand shaping: If you don’t have a Modak mold, shaping them by hand is totally fine. Just make sure to press the dough gently and fill it carefully without overstuffing.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Modak
The Chocolate Modak is a decadent and delightful twist on the classic Modak. Combining the rich, velvety smoothness of chocolate with the soft, chewy rice flour dough makes it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers and fans of traditional sweets alike. Whether you’re celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi or simply in the mood for something indulgent, these Modaks offer a perfect fusion of old and new.
The recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a treat that looks as beautiful as it tastes. The gooey chocolate filling inside the soft dough is an absolute delight, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Conclusion
Chocolate Modak is a delicious modern take on a traditional Indian delicacy, perfect for any occasion, whether festive or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with family. It blends the nostalgic flavors of Indian sweets with the richness of chocolate, offering a unique and satisfying experience.
So, gather your ingredients, get your hands on a Modak mold (or shape them by hand), and try out this indulgent recipe. Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be impressed by this gorgeous fusion dessert. Enjoy!
