Steamed Ragi Modak Recipe – A Healthy Ganesh Chaturthi Sweet with Fiber & Calcium

Steamed Ragi Modak Recipe – A Healthy Ganesh Chaturthi Sweet with Fiber & Calcium

Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival full of joy, devotion, and delicious sweets. Among all the festive treats, modaks hold a special place as Lord Ganesha’s favorite. Traditionally, they are made with rice flour and stuffed with coconut and jaggery. But if you want a healthier twist without losing the authentic taste, try making Steamed Ragi Modak.

This recipe uses ragi (finger millet) flour, which is rich in fiber, calcium, and iron. It is sweetened with dates or jaggery, making it a guilt-free prasadam that is both nutritious and delicious.


Why Choose Ragi for Modaks?

Ragi, also called finger millet, is a superfood that has been a part of Indian diets for centuries. It is packed with:

  • Calcium – Strengthens bones and teeth.

  • Dietary Fiber – Supports digestion and keeps you full for longer.

  • Iron – Prevents anemia and boosts energy levels.

  • Gluten-Free – Great for those with gluten sensitivity.

Replacing rice flour with ragi flour gives your modaks a nutty flavor and a rich brown color, along with added health benefits.


Health Benefits of Steamed Ragi Modak

  1. Low in Sugar – Sweetened naturally with jaggery or dates.

  2. Good for Digestion – Steaming makes them light and easy to digest.

  3. Rich in Minerals – High in calcium, iron, and magnesium.

  4. Festive Yet Healthy – Perfect for balancing tradition with wellness.


Ingredients for Steamed Ragi Modak (Makes 10–12 modaks)

For the Dough

  • 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet flour)

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 tsp ghee or coconut oil

  • A pinch of salt

For the Filling

  • ½ cup grated fresh coconut

  • ½ cup jaggery (or 8–10 seedless dates, chopped)

  • ½ tsp cardamom powder

  • 1 tbsp chopped nuts (optional – almonds, cashews, pistachios)


Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Filling

  1. Heat a pan and add the grated coconut.

  2. Add jaggery (or chopped dates) and stir until it melts and combines with the coconut.

  3. Add cardamom powder and nuts.

  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then set aside to cool.


2. Make the Dough

  1. Boil 1 cup of water in a pan.

  2. Add ghee (or coconut oil) and a pinch of salt.

  3. Reduce the flame and add ragi flour gradually, stirring to avoid lumps.

  4. Cover and cook for 1–2 minutes.

  5. Transfer to a plate and knead into a soft dough while warm. Use a little warm water if needed.


3. Shape the Modaks

  1. Grease your palms with ghee or oil.

  2. Take a small portion of dough and shape it into a ball.

  3. Flatten it into a cup shape using your fingers.

  4. Place 1–2 tsp of filling inside.

  5. Gently bring the edges together to form a pointed top (traditional modak shape).

  6. You can also use a modak mould for easy shaping.


4. Steam the Modaks

  1. Place the shaped modaks in a steamer lined with banana leaves or parchment paper.

  2. Steam for 8–10 minutes on medium flame.

  3. Serve warm as prasadam for Ganesh Chaturthi.


Tips for Perfect Steamed Ragi Modaks

  • Use fresh ragi flour for best taste and nutrition.

  • If using dates instead of jaggery, blend them into a paste before adding to coconut.

  • Avoid overcooking while steaming; it keeps the modaks soft.

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.


Nutritional Value (Per Modak)

  • Calories: ~90 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Protein: 2g

  • Fat: 3g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Calcium: 80mg


Why Steamed Modaks Are Better Than Fried

  • Lower in Calories – Steaming reduces oil usage.

  • Retains Nutrients – Heat-sensitive nutrients like vitamin B and antioxidants are preserved.

  • Light on the Stomach – Ideal for long puja days and fasting.


Serving Ideas

  • Offer them as naivedyam to Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi.

  • Serve warm with a drizzle of ghee.

  • Pair with saffron-flavored warm milk for a wholesome festive treat.


Conclusion

Steamed Ragi Modak is the perfect balance between tradition and health. It brings all the joy of Ganesh Chaturthi without the guilt of excess sugar or fried food. Whether you’re looking for a diabetic-friendly sweet, a gluten-free prasadam, or just a nutritious twist to a classic, this recipe will win hearts at your festive table.

This Ganesh Chaturthi, try making these soft, flavorful, and healthy ragi modaks – a sweet offering to Lord Ganesha that your body will thank you for.

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