Introduction:

 

Ah, the joy of indulging in Chocolate Modak! Let me take you on a journey back to my childhood, where festivals meant a flurry of activity in the kitchen, with the tantalizing aroma of sweets filling the air. One particular Ganesh Chaturthi stands out vividly in my memory when my grandmother introduced me to the art of making Chocolate Modaks. The sight of her expert hands shaping the modaks, each one a miniature work of art, left an indelible mark on me. Since then, Chocolate Modaks have become a cherished tradition in my family, symbolizing not just the sweetness of the festival but also the love and togetherness it brings. Let's embark on this delightful culinary adventure together!

 

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Chocolate Modak Recipe by Chef Ajay Chopra

 

Ingredients:

 

• 1 cup Rice flour
• 1 cup Water
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp Ghee / Clarified Butter

For Stuffing:

• 2 tbsp Orange Peel
• 2 tbsp Hazelnut
• 2 tbsp Raisins
• 1 cup Mawa
• ½ cup Melted Chocolate

 

 

Method:

 

For Dough:

1. Take a pan, pour water and add ghee along with salt. Bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, turn off the heat and add rice flour into the water.
3. Quickly mix everything thoroughly to remove lumps and form a dough. Remove from heat and let it cool.

For Stuffing:

1. Heat a pan and toast hazelnuts until fragrant. Then add mawa and soften it.
2. Add orange peel, raisins, and melted chocolate. Mix everything well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate until it becomes hard.

Modak Preparation:

1. Grease your palms with ghee and apply some ghee to a modak mold.
2. Take a small portion of the dough, flatten it, and place it on both sides of the mold.
3. Put a spoonful of the stuffing on one side of the mold, then fold the mold and press it to shape the modak.
4. Remove the modak from the mold and place it on a plate.
5. Grease a steamer dish with ghee and arrange the modaks in it. Steam for about 5 minutes.
6. Once done, transfer the modaks to a serving plate and pour some ghee on top.
7. Garnish with orange peel, hazelnuts, and chocolate spread. Serve and enjoy!

 

Note: Chocolate Modaks are now ready to be served as a delightful and unique sweet treat.

 

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About the Recipe:

 

Chocolate Modaks are a modern twist on the traditional Indian sweet, typically offered to Lord Ganesha during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. This delectable variation combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the traditional sweetness of modaks, creating a treat that is both delicious and symbolic. Shaped like a modak, which is said to be Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet, Chocolate Modaks are sure to delight your taste buds and add a touch of whimsy to your festive celebrations.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Use good quality chocolate for the best flavor in your Chocolate Modaks.
2. Be patient while melting the chocolate, ensuring it is melted gently to avoid burning or seizing.
3. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before shaping the modaks to prevent them from becoming too soft and difficult to handle.
4. Grease your hands lightly with ghee or oil when shaping the modaks to prevent the chocolate from sticking to your hands.
5. Experiment with different fillings for your Chocolate Modaks, such as nuts, dried fruits, or even caramel, for added texture and flavor.
6. Store the Chocolate Modaks in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to prevent them from melting or becoming too soft.
7. Offer the Chocolate Modaks to Lord Ganesha with love and devotion, seeking his blessings for prosperity and happiness.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Chocolate Modaks pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and desserts. Here are some pairing suggestions:

 

• Serve them with a hot cup of masala chai for a comforting and indulgent treat.
• Enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Pair them with a glass of milk for a wholesome and satisfying snack.
• Serve them with a cup of creamy hot chocolate for a decadent and indulgent experience.

 

Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing and savor the divine taste of Chocolate Modaks!

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate Modaks:

 

1. Can I use any type of chocolate to make Chocolate Modaks?

   • Yes, you can use dark, milk, or white chocolate according to your preference.

2. How do I prevent my Chocolate Modaks from melting?

   • Store them in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat.

3. Can I make Chocolate Modaks in advance?

   • Yes, you can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

4. What is the significance of offering modaks to Lord Ganesha?

   • Modaks are considered to be Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet, symbolizing his love for his devotees and his blessings for prosperity and happiness.

5. Can I use molds to shape the Chocolate Modaks?

   • Yes, you can use modak molds or silicone molds to shape the Chocolate Modaks for a more uniform appearance.

6. Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the Chocolate Modaks?

   • Yes, you can add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or other fillings to the Chocolate Modaks for added texture and flavor.

7. How do I make the filling for Chocolate Modaks?

   • You can make the filling by mixing chopped nuts, dried fruits, or caramel with melted chocolate before shaping the modaks.

8. Can I use store-bought chocolate ganache for the filling?

   • Yes, you can use store-bought chocolate ganache as a filling for the Chocolate Modaks for added convenience.

9. Do Chocolate Modaks have to be refrigerated?

   • It's not necessary to refrigerate Chocolate Modaks unless the weather is very hot, as they may melt at room temperature.

10. Can I use vegan chocolate to make Chocolate Modaks?

    • Yes, you can use vegan chocolate to make vegan-friendly Chocolate Modaks for those with dietary restrictions.

 

Enjoy the divine sweetness of Chocolate Modaks, a modern twist on a traditional favorite, and celebrate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi with joy and devotion!

 

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