How to Make Steamed Modaks for Ganesh Chaturthi in a Pressure Cooker

Ganesh Chaturthi is incomplete without Ukadiche Modaks, the beloved sweet dumplings offered to Lord Ganesha. While traditionally steamed in brass pots or special steamers, the Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker brings a modern, reliable twist to this age-old preparation. Its premium build, thoughtful safety features, and smart heat technology allow you to create perfectly steamed Modaks with ease—right in your own kitchen.

Why Choose Meyer Presta for Modaks?

Unlike conventional cookers, the Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker is designed for more than just pressure cooking—it’s a versatile, dependable companion for festive Indian recipes. With its triply base construction, encapsulated bottom, and safe lid-locking system, it transforms into a high-performance steamer when used without the gasket and whistle.

1. Triply base ensures even, controlled heating—critical for soft, evenly steamed Modaks.
2. Encapsulated bottom retains heat, conserving energy and ensuring a consistent cooking environment.
3. Wide base gives enough room to steam multiple Modaks in one go.
4. Stainless steel durability (nickel-free) ensures safe, toxin-free festive cooking for the whole family.
5. No-pressure steaming is made safe and simple with a secure locking lid used without the gasket and weight.

Ingredients

For the Filling (Saran):

• 1 cup fresh grated coconut

• ¾ cup jaggery (grated or powdered)

• ½ tsp cardamom powder

• 1 tsp ghee

• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

• Chopped nuts/raisins (optional)

For the Dough (Ukad):

• 1 cup rice flour

• 1¼ cups water

• 1 tsp ghee

• A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Modak Preparation in Meyer Presta

1. Prepare the Sweet Coconut Filling

Start by making the traditional Modak stuffing:

• In a pan, heat 1 tsp of ghee.

• Add grated coconut and jaggery. Cook over medium heat until the jaggery melts completely.

• Stir constantly for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

• Add cardamom, nutmeg, and optional dry fruits. Let it cool completely before filling.

2. Make the Dough in Your Meyer Presta

• Add 1¼ cups water to the Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker (used as a pot without the lid) and bring it to a boil.

• Add salt and ghee, then slowly stir in the rice flour.

• Mix thoroughly to form a soft dough, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.

• Transfer to a plate and knead while warm until smooth.

3. Shape the Modaks

• Divide the dough into small balls.

• Flatten each into a disc, fill with the cooled coconut-jaggery mixture, and shape into Modaks by pinching the edges together. You can also use Modak moulds for a neater look.

4. Steam the Modaks in Meyer Presta

Now for the star performance—steaming in your Meyer Presta:

• Add 1½–2 cups of water to the pressure cooker.

• Place a trivet or steaming ring at the base.

• Grease a steel plate or thali and arrange the Modaks without overcrowding.

• Place the plate on the trivet.

Important: Remove the gasket and pressure regulator (whistle) from the lid.
Close the lid securely—this allows steam to build without pressure, creating an ideal, oven-like steaming chamber.

• Steam the Modaks on medium flame for 10–12 minutes.

• When done, the Modaks will appear glossy and slightly translucent—perfectly cooked.

Serve with Love and Tradition

Let the Modaks rest for a few minutes. Brush them with a little warm ghee for extra flavour. Offer to Lord Ganesha and serve warm to family and guests.

The Meyer Presta Advantage

Making Modaks the traditional way often requires multiple utensils and a good deal of guesswork. But Meyer Presta streamlines the process with:

• Uniform heat distribution for consistent steaming

• Energy-efficient base that saves time and fuel

• Safe, hassle-free lid-lock mechanism for worry-free dry cooking

• Spacious interior that accommodates festival-sized batches

• Stainless steel, nickel-free interior that’s completely food-safe

  
  

  MEYER Presta Tri-ply with Outer Lid Pressure Cooker 2L

  
  

Conclusion

Whether you're preparing the first Modak for Bappa or a full batch for your family, Meyer Presta ensures tradition meets convenience—helping you celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with authenticity, ease, and delicious results.