Modak, being Ganpati Bappa’s favorite sweet, is an essential part of the bhog thali, and no offering is complete without it (In frame: Vegan modak)
Nutritious and delicious recipes add a modern twist to Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Ganesh Chaturthi, a vibrant festival honoring Lord Ganesha, is celebrated with joyous festivities and the preparation of special sweets. Among the traditional modaks, innovative recipes like Almond and Amaranth Bites and Vegan Modak offer a modern twist, combining taste with health benefits. These treats, recommended by experts, are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for sharing during the festival.
Almond and Amaranth Bites Recipe by Dr Rohini Patil
Ganesh Chaturthi, a festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, is marked by colourful decorations, joyous music, and the preparation of delicious treats. Among the traditional sweets, a modern twist to the festivities includes making Almond and Amaranth Bites, a nutritious and delightful treat recommended by Dr. Rohini Patil. These bites are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Serves: 14 – 15 pieces
Preparation Time: 5 – 7 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 – 12 minutes
Ingredients:
50 g popped amaranth seeds
50 ml melted jaggery
30 g almond slivers (unpeeled)
Instructions:
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the popped amaranth seeds with the melted jaggery. Stir until well-coated.
Add Almonds: Gently fold in the almond slivers.
Shape Bites: Transfer the mixture onto a plate or tray. Shape into small bite-sized pieces.
Cool and Set: Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 10-12 minutes.
Enjoy these nutritious and delicious treats as a part of your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations!
Vegan Modak Recipe by Hina Gujral, Chef & Supporter of Veganuary India
This Ganesha Utsav, celebrate with a delicious and divine offering—Vegan Modak. Made with coconut, almond milk, and jaggery, these modaks are a simple and wholesome alternative to the traditional version, requiring no condensed milk or mawa. Modak, being Ganpati Bappa’s favorite sweet, is an essential part of the bhog thali, and no offering is complete without it. Perfectly crafted to honor Lord Ganesha, this easy recipe preserves the essence of the festival while embracing a plant-based lifestyle.
Ingredients:
2 cups coconut
1/2 cup almond milk
1/3 cup jaggery powder
1 teaspoon cardamom powder
1/4 teaspoon saffron (optional)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
1 tablespoon peanuts
Instructions:
Dry Roast: Dry roast peanuts and sesame seeds, then blend into a coarse powder.
Heat Oil: Heat coconut oil in a pan, add coconut, and fry over low heat.
Add Ingredients: Add almond milk, jaggery powder, saffron, and fry well.
Mix: Stir in the peanut powder, mixing everything together.
Mold Modaks: Turn off the heat, grease a modak mold, and fill it with the mixture. Press gently.
Enjoy these instant modaks as a sweet, plant-based offering for Ganesh Chaturthi!
