If you’re craving a comforting, homemade snack that’s both light and flavorful, look no further than this Carrot-Coconut Rava Modak. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this steamed delicacy combines the wholesome texture of semolina (rava) with a sweet, aromatic filling of carrots, coconut, and jaggery. It’s subtly spiced, naturally sweetened, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for tea time or a healthy evening bite.
- Ingredients:
- For the outer layer (dough):
- 1 cup fine rava (semolina)
- 1½ cups water
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ghee
- For the sweet filling:
- ¾ cup grated carrot
- ¾ cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
- ¾ cup jaggery powder
- 2 tsp ghee
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ¼ tsp cardamom (elaichi) powder
- For greasing:
- Ghee or oil, for shaping
Prepare the rava dough:
In a pan, heat 1 tsp ghee and lightly roast the rava on low heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add water and salt, mix well, and cook on medium-low heat, stirring continuously, until the rava absorbs all the water and forms a soft, lump-free dough (about 4–5 minutes). Cover and let it cool slightly until it’s comfortable to handle.
Make the sweet carrot-coconut filling:
In another pan, heat 2 tsp ghee. Add grated carrot and sauté for 2–3 minutes on medium heat. Add grated coconut and sauté for another 2 minutes. Stir in jaggery powder, water, and sugar (if using). Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens slightly (about 4–5 minutes). Add cardamom powder, mix well, and remove from heat. Let it cool completely.
Shape the modaks:
Grease your palms with a little ghee or oil. Take a small portion of the rava dough and flatten it into a small disc. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center. Gently bring the edges together to seal, shaping it into a modak or dumpling form. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.
Steam to perfection:
Grease a steamer plate or idli mould lightly. Arrange the shaped modaks, leaving a little space between each. Steam on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, until the modaks look firm and glossy.
Serve warm:
Remove from the steamer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm as a sweet-savory snack with a cup of masala chai or coffee.
