Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most celebrated festivals in India, is set to take place on Saturday, 7 September 2024. This auspicious occasion marks the start of Ganeshotsav, a ten-day festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. During this vibrant celebration, devotees partake in various rituals and offer an array of delectable sweets, with modaks being the most popular offering. While traditional modaks are made with rice flour, coconut, and jaggery, we are excited to share a twist with a delightful recipe for chocolate modaks, sure to please both young and old alike.
Why Chocolate Modaks?
Chocolate is a universally loved flavor, especially among children. By adding chocolate modaks to your festive offerings, you not only adhere to tradition but also introduce a modern twist that enhances the celebrations. Offering these sweet treats to Lord Ganesha and later distributing them as prasad (blessed offerings) can bring joy to children and adults alike.
Ingredients for Chocolate Modaks
To create these indulgent chocolate modaks, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate
- ½ cup fresh cream
- ½ cup condensed milk
- ¼ cup mawa (khoya)
- Mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts) – finely chopped
- 3-4 tablespoons desi ghee (clarified butter)
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Chocolate Modaks
Preparation Steps
- Combine Key Ingredients: Begin by placing the condensed milk in a wide, thick-bottomed non-stick pan. Add the fresh cream and dark chocolate.
- Cook Mixture: Set the pan on low flame and stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes homogeneous.
- Add Mawa: Once the mixture is smooth, add mawa, stirring until it thickens to a fudge-like consistency. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool down.
- Incorporate Nuts: After the mixture has cooled, fold in the chopped nuts, combining them evenly.
- Prepare Modaks: Grease the modak mould with desi ghee. Spoon the mixture into the moulds, pressing it down gently to ensure they hold their shape. If you don’t have moulds, you can shape the modaks by hand.
- Finishing Touch: Once all the modaks are shaped, consider adding a touch of class by decorating them with edible silver foil.
Storing and Serving
Store the chocolate modaks in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can be served on the day of Ganesh Chaturthi or enjoyed later as a sweet treat. Sharing these delightful chocolates as prasad not only honors Lord Ganesha but also spreads love and happiness among family and friends during the festival.
Conclusion
Chocolate modaks offer a unique and delicious way to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. Their rich flavor and appealing presentation can enhance your festive offerings. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this delightful culinary journey to sweeten your celebrations and create cherished memories with loved ones this Ganesh Utsav!
