How to make Indian steamed dumplings (modaks)
What's the story
Busy mornings call for a healthy breakfast that's easy to make. Indian food is full of choices, but one that shines for its healthiness and simplicity is steamed modak. These fast-to-fix dumplings fuel your day. Read on for simple ways to make steamed modak a part of your morning routine.
Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients
The secret to fast and tasty steamed modak is choosing the right ingredients. Use fresh grated coconut, jaggery, and fine rice flour to guarantee your dumplings are full of flavor and achieve the perfect texture. Having these ingredients ready the night before can save you valuable time in the morning, allowing you to focus on shaping your modak.
Process
Simplifying the process
Traditionally, making modak can be time-consuming, but there are shortcuts to save time without sacrificing taste. Using a modak mold is a huge time-saver for shaping the dumplings evenly. You can also make the filling the night before and keep it in the fridge to save time. These tips make the process faster and easier, especially if you're busy.
Steaming
Steaming made easy
Steaming the modaks is a delicate process that needs a little extra care. Thankfully, a modern electric steamer or a pressure cooker (without the whistle) can be your best friends here, making the process super easy and efficient. Just remember to keep the dumplings above the water level by placing them on a raised platform inside the steamer or cooker.
Serving
Serving suggestions
To elevate your breakfast, pair the steamed modaks with a drizzle of warm ghee or a side of coconut milk. These options add a layer of richness and flavor while also enhancing the nutritional profile of your meal. It's the perfect way to start a busy day with an extra dose of energy.
Tips
Time-saving tips
On super busy days when you can't spare a moment, you can make a big batch of modaks on the weekend and freeze them. Just reheat by steaming for five minutes or until they're heated all the way through. This way, you can have fast, healthy breakfasts all week without having to prep every morning.