Prepare Ukadiche Modak effortlessly with this easy recipe for Ganeshotsav. Follow the step-by-step instructions to create this traditional sweet filled with coconut and jaggery. Mumbai: Ganeshotsav, the festival that celebrates the arrival of Lord Ganesha, is incomplete without the traditional Ukadiche Modak.

These steamed rice dumplings, filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture, are believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite treat. Making Ukadiche Modak at home is not only a delicious way to honour the deity but also a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit. The name ‘Ukadiche’ comes from the Marathi word ‘Ukad,’ meaning steam, while ‘Modak’ refers to the sweet rice dumpling.

This dish is particularly popular in Maharashtra and is an essential part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Ukadiche Modak is believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet, making it a customary offering during the festival. After being offered to Lord Ganesha, the Modaks are distributed as Prasadam to family and friends.

The traditional recipe involves a rice flour shell filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture. However, there are various versions of this dish, each with different fillings offered to Lord Ganapathi for the same devotional purpose. While the outer rice flour layer generally remains the same, the filling can be customised.

Additionally, the sweetness can be enhanced using different types of sugar or other sweeteners to make the Modak more appea.