As we welcome the vibrant festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, a time filled with joy, devotion, and delicious treats, it’s essential to embrace the spirit of celebration while keeping our health in mind. Lord Ganesha, also lovingly called Ganpati or Vinayak, is known for his love of modaks, and tradition dictates that we offer him 21 modaks during this auspicious time. But why does Ganesha have 21 modak? This number symbolises the unity of various elements of creation, making it a significant offering to seek Ganesha's blessings for wisdom and success. We will discuss this more in the blog.
This year, let’s make a pledge to honour Ganesha by preparing healthy, sugar-free modak recipes that delight the palate without piling on the calories. With these easy modak recipes, you can indulge in the festive spirit while staying mindful of your health. From coconut-infused delights to rich, nutty variations, these best modak recipes are crafted to satisfy your cravings without compromising your health.
Join us in celebrating the ten days of Ganesh Chaturthi with these scrumptious, guilt-free modak recipes that will not only please Ganesha but also keep our bodies happy. Let’s make this festival a time of joy, devotion, and healthy choices!
Table Of Content
- Why Does Ganesha Have 21 Modak?
- 7 Healthy Sugar-Free Modak Recipes
- Dietitian’s Recommendation
- The Final Say
- FAQs
- References
Why Does Ganesha Have 21 Modak?
Why do we offer 21 modak as a favourite for Ganpati? It is rooted in Sankhya philosophy, reflecting a profound understanding. 21 represents:
- 5 Karma Indriyas
- 5 Gyan Indriyas
- 5 Tattvas
- 5 Tanmatras
- 1 Ming
To truly realise him (the divinity within), we must be willing to give everything to him. It is common knowledge that modak is Ganapati's preferred sweet treat. Yet, only a few are aware of the origins of modak being chosen as Lord Ganesh's preferred treat. Even fewer people know the reason behind offering exactly 21 modak during a puja of Lord Ganesh on Ganesh Chaturthi.
There is a fascinating story associated with this. When Lord Shiva came to visit Anusuya at her forest-dwelling, he sat down for a meal alongside a young Ganapati. Lord Shiva, feeling extremely hungry, eagerly waited for Anusuya to serve him. Anusuya mentioned that he would need to be patient because Bal Ganesh would be given food first, and only after he had eaten his fill would she serve Lord Shiva.
Lord Shiva patiently waited as Anusuya served Bal Ganesh various food. Ganapati, who had a big appetite, joyfully consumed everything offered to him, yet he found himself still hungry even after multiple servings. His insatiable hunger even surprised his mother, Goddess Parvati! In the end, Anusuya understood that Lord Shiva would still be hungry if Ganapati weren't satisfied, so she offered him a sweet piece of food.
After finishing it, Ganapati belched loudly, signalling that he had finally satisfied his hunger and that his stomach was full. Surprisingly, just as he burped, Lord Shiva also burped 21 times simultaneously. Both Lord Shiva and Ganapati then stated at the same time that they were satisfied and did not desire any additional food to be provided. This is the reasoning behind offering 21 modak or 21 durva.
Modak Is Also A Symbol Of Bliss And Knowledge!
The modak is not just sweet but is considered a symbol of bliss (Ananda). Its round shape and the delightful taste inside are said to represent the spiritual knowledge and joy that Ganesh imparts to his devotees. The outer shell of the modak represents the materialistic world, while the sweet filling inside symbolises the divine soul or the ultimate truth that one finds when one goes beyond the materialistic cravings.
Also Read: Independence Day Yoga For A Renewed Spirit! 9 Yoga Poses, Pranayam And Meditation Techniques
7 Healthy Sugar-Free Modak Recipes
Now, let’s have a look at these delicious, healthy, sugar-free modak recipes made from the best healthy foods for weight loss that make your celebrations even more glorious:
1. Steamed Jaggery-Coconut Modak (Ukadiche Modak)
These traditional steamed modaks made with jaggery and coconut are not only delicious but also a healthy treat to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi.
Preparation Time: 45 min- 1 hour
Servings: Approximately 10-12 modak
Ingredients:
- Rice Flour - 1 cup
- Grated Coconut - 1 cup
- Jaggery - ½ cup (you can use Stevia powder)
- Cardamom Powder - 1 tsp
- Ghee - 1 tbsp
- Salt - 1 pinch
- Water - as required
Instructions:
- Warm a pan and add grated coconut and jaggery. Continue cooking until the jaggery is completely melted and blends thoroughly with the coconut.
- Mix in the cardamom powder. Bring water to a boil with a dash of salt and a teaspoon of ghee. Slowly mix in rice flour while constantly stirring until a soft dough is formed.
- Let the dough cool for a bit. Coat your hands in ghee, grab a small piece of the dough, and mould it into a cup.
- Pack the jaggery-coconut mixture inside, then close and mould it into a modak.
- Cook the modak in a steamer for 10-15 minutes. Serve at a warm temperature.
2. Ragi (Finger Millet) Modak
Ragi modaks are a nutritious alternative packed with fibre and essential nutrients, making them a perfect addition to your balanced diet for weight loss.
Preparation Time: 45 min- 1 hour
Servings: Approximately 12-13 modak
Ingredients:
- Ragi Flour - 1 cup
- Grated Coconut - ½ cup
- Jaggery Powder - ½ cup
- Cardamom Powder- 1 tsp
- Ghee - 1 tbsp
- Water as needed
Instructions:
- Heat a pan and add ghee. Add grated coconut and jaggery, and cook until well combined. Add cardamom powder.
- In a separate pan, boil water and gradually add ragi flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Once the dough is soft and cooked, let it cool.
- Grease your hands, take a small portion of the dough, shape it into a cup, fill it with the coconut-jaggery mixture, and shape into modaks.
- Steam for 10-12 minutes. Serve warm.
3. No-Cook Nut Modak
These quick and easy no-cook nut modaks are a great way to satisfy your sweet cravings while providing healthy fats and protein.
Preparation Time: 30 min - 45 min
Servings: Approximately 8-10 modak
Ingredients:
- Mixed Nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)- 1 cup
- Dates (deseeded and chopped)- ½ cup
- Flaxseed Powder- 2 tbsp
- Cardamom Powder - 1 tsp
Instructions:
- Blend the mixed nuts into a coarse powder.
- Blend the dates into a paste.
- Mix the nut powder, date paste, flaxseed meal, and cardamom powder until combined, and make sure it binds well to make modak.
- Shape the mixture into a modak using a Mold. Serve as a quick, no-cook recipe.
4. Oats and Almond Modak
Oats are good for weight loss, and almonds are a rich source of healthy fats. Combine them together to make a healthy, delightful treat!
Preparation Time: 30 - 45 min
Servings: Approximately 8-10 modak
Ingredients:
- Oats - 1 cup powdered
- Almond Powder - ½ cup (for binding)
- Dates - ½ cup deseeded and chopped
- Cardamom Powder -1 tsp
- Ghee - 1 tbsp
Instructions:
- Blend dates into a smooth paste. In a bowl, mix powdered oats, almond meal, date paste, cardamom powder, and ghee until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a modak using a mould.
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the modak in the basket and air-fry for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. These modaks are rich in fibre, protein, and natural sweetness from dates.
5. Wheat Flour Modak with Dates and Seeds Filling
Filled with wholesome dates and seeds, these wheat flour modaks are a great option for those following an intermittent fasting diet plan, offering a satisfying and nutritious treat.
Preparation Time: 45 min - 1 hour
Servings: Approximately 10-11 modak
Ingredients:
- Whole Wheat flour - 1 cup
- Dates -½ cup (pitted and chopped)
- Pumpkin Seeds and Sunflower Seeds - 1/3 cup (finely chopped)
- Ghee- 1 tbsp.
- Cardamom Powder -1 tsp
- A pinch of Salt
- Water as needed
Instructions:
- Heat ghee in a pan, add chopped dates and chopped mix seeds cook until they turn soft. Add cardamom powder and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix wheat flour with a pinch of salt. Add water gradually and knead into a soft dough.
- Take a small portion of the dough, roll it into a round puri, shape it into a cup, fill it with the dates and seed mixture, and shape it into a modak.
- Steam for 10-15 minutes/ or air fry at 180 degrees for 5-7 minutes. Let them cool slightly before serving.
6. Low-Fat Paneer Modak
These low-fat paneer modaks are not only tasty but also provide essential protein, making them one of the best foods to increase stamina during festive celebrations.
Preparation Time: 30 - 40min
Servings: Approximately 8-10 modak
Ingredients:
- Low-fat Paneer - 1 cup (crumbled)
- Grated Coconut - ½ cup
- Jaggery- ¼ cup
- Cardamom powder - 1 tsp
- Ghee - 1 tsp
Instructions:
- Heat a pan, add ghee, grated coconut, and jaggery. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add crumbled paneer and cardamom powder and mix well.
- Once the mixture cools, shape it into a modak using a mould or hand.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
7. Poppy Seeds and Mixed Nuts Modak
Packed with the goodness of poppy seeds and mixed nuts, these modaks are a delightful treat that offers a perfect blend of flavours and nutrients.
Preparation Time: 45 min - 1 hour
Servings: Approximately 10-12 modak
Ingredients
- Poppy Seeds - 2 tbsp
- Cashew (chopped) - 2 tbsp
- Almonds (chopped) - 2 tbsp
- Raisins - 2 tbsp
- Dates (finely chopped) - ½ cup
- Milk - ¼ cup
- Milk Powder (full cream) - ½ cup
- Coconut (grated) - ¼ cup
- Cardamom Powder - ¼ tsp
- Ghee - 2 tsp
For dough:
- Water - 1¼ cup
- Salt - ¼ tsp
- Ghee- ¼ tsp
- Rice flour- 1 cup, fine
Instructions
- Heat 1¼ cups water, ¼ tsp salt, and ½ tsp ghee in a big kadai over medium heat. Heat the water until it boils.
- Pour in one cup of rice flour and lower the heat to low after the water reaches a boiling point.
- Mix well with the water until fully combined. Don’t worry if the dough appears dry at this stage.
- Turn off the heat, cover the kadai, and let the mixture rest for 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and knead it into a smooth dough while it is still warm.
- Take small portions of the dough and shape them into modaks.
- Place the shaped modaks in a steamer, ensuring they are spaced apart. Steam for 10 minutes until shiny.
Offer these healthy, sugar-free modak recipes to Lord Ganesh as part of your Ganesh Chaturthi celebration!
Also Read: Top 10 Energy Boosting Foods And 5 Best Health Drinks To Fuel Up Your Workouts!
Dietitian’s Recommendation
For a healthier twist on traditional modak, opt for steamed versions instead of fried to reduce fat content. Use natural sweeteners like jaggery or dates instead of refined sugar, which provides essential minerals and a lower glycemic index.
Incorporate whole grains like oats or ragi flour to increase fibre content, aiding digestion and satiety. Adding nuts and seeds not only enhances flavour but also boosts protein and healthy fat content. Moderation is key—enjoy modak in controlled portions to maintain a balanced diet, especially during festive times when indulgence is common.
Health Expert
Akshata Gandevikar
The Final Say
Now you must have found the answer to the question, “Why does Ganesha have 21 modak?” and discovered the best healthy, sugar-free modak recipes.
Lord Ganesh's association with 21 modak is a rich tapestry of mythology, symbolism, cultural practices, and spiritual meanings. The modak, a simple yet profound symbol of joy and wisdom, represents the sweetness of knowledge that Ganesha bestows upon his devotees. The number 21, signifying completeness and balance, enhances this symbolism, making the offering a holistic spiritual practice.
Through the offering of 21 modak, devotees seek to connect with Ganesh to attain his blessings for a life filled with prosperity, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles. As traditions evolve, the essence of this practice continues to inspire, reminding us of the deep spiritual truths embedded in seemingly simple rituals.
FAQs
1. What is Ganesh Chaturthi?
Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and removing obstacles. It typically lasts 10 days, starting on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of Bhadrapada's Hindu lunar calendar month, usually in August or September.
2. Why do we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi?
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated to honour Lord Ganesh's birth and his role as the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings. Devotees believe that celebrating this festival brings good fortune, wisdom, and success in personal and professional endeavours.
3. What are the common rituals performed during Ganesh Chaturthi?
Rituals include chanting mantras and offering flowers, fruits, and sweets like modak to the Ganesh idol. Devotees perform aarti (devotional singing) twice daily, in the morning and evening. Pooja (prayer) involves invoking Ganesh's blessings to remove obstacles and bring prosperity.
4. What is the significance of the 10-day celebration period?
The 10-day celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi symbolises the divine energy's presence in the idol. It is believed to be the most auspicious time for invoking Ganesh's blessings. It represents the span from his arrival to his return to Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva's abode.
References
- https://hebbarskitchen.com/sugar-free-modak-recipe-no-sugar-jaggery/#google_vignette
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRyONf_V874
- https://sweetify.in/blogs/recipes/sugar-free-modak-recipe-for-ganesh-chaturthi-with-sweetify
- https://cookpad.com/in/recipes/15589496-healthy-sugar-free-dry-fruit-modak
- https://flavourfulfoods.com/sugar-free-dry-fruit-modak/
- https://www.aaichisavali.com/2020/08/Khajur-Modak.html
- https://batterupwithsujata.com/2020/08/oats-date-dry-fruits-modak-sugar-free-modak/
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