Add a sweet touch to Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 celebrations with this quinoa and jaggery modak recipe | Health

What are the nutritional benefits of modak?

Using wholesome ingredients not only enhances the nutritional value but also contributes to overall well-being. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make these modaks a healthy choice:

• Quinoa: Known as a superfood, quinoa is gluten-free and rich in protein, fibre, and essential amino acids, aiding digestion and supporting weight management.
• Jaggery: A natural sweetener, jaggery is richer in nutrients compared to refined sugar. It’s high in iron and antioxidants, supports metabolism, and purifies the blood.
• Coconut: Both fresh and dried coconut provide healthy fats and fibre, supporting heart health and prolonging feelings of fullness.
• Cardamom: This aromatic spice not only enhances flavour but is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits.

What is the nutritional value of modak?

For those watching their dietary intake, Dietitian Kejal Shah shares a nutritional breakdown for each serving of quinoa and jaggery modaks:

• Calories: 120 – 150
• Protein: 2 – 3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 – 30 grams
• Fibre: 2 – 3 grams
• Fats: 4 – 6 grams

Quinoa and jaggery modak recipe by Chef Ishijyot Surri

Ingredients needed

To prepare approximately 12 modaks, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa (cooked and cooled)
• 1/2 cup jaggery (grated)
• 1/4 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• Ghee or coconut oil for greasing
• Modak moulds (for shaping)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Cook the quinoa

• Rinse: Start by thoroughly rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter flavour.
• Cook: Follow the package instructions to prepare the quinoa, typically using a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water. Bring to a boil, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed (around 15 minutes).
• Fluff: Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

• Melt the jaggery: In a non-stick pan, melt the grated jaggery over low heat until it turns into a syrup (about 5 minutes).
• Combine: Add a pinch of salt and the grated coconut to the melted jaggery. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
• Incorporate quinoa: Stir in the cardamom powder and the cooked quinoa, ensuring everything is well combined. Allow this mixture to cool before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Shape the modaks

• Prepare moulds: While the mixture cools, lightly grease your modak moulds with ghee or coconut oil. This helps in easy removal later.
• Form the modaks: Take a small portion of the quinoa mixture and press it firmly into the mould, ensuring it holds the shape of a modak. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Step 4: Offering and enjoyment

• Remove from moulds: Carefully remove the shaped modaks from the moulds. They can now be offered to Lord Ganesha, symbolising devotion and gratitude.
• Savour together: Enjoy the modaks with family as a healthy treat that beautifully blends tradition with modern health consciousness.