Modakam
Steamed Sweet Coconut Balls

Steamed rice balls stuffed with a sweet coconut filling is believed a favorite of lord Ganapathi, destroyer of all obstacles. There is a myth about this sweet in my hometown - when someone has a migraine headache, they would pray to offer a large modakam (almost the size of a large grapefruit) at the Ganapathi temple. The headache would be cured in no time - no need for medication.

2 cups of rice flour
1/4 cup vegetable, corn or canola oil
1 coconut grated finely
1 cup of jaggery or dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons of ghee plus one tablespoon for greasing the hand

In a heavy bottomed skillet melt the brown sugar along with a tablespoon of water. Stir in grated coconut and ghee when the syrup starts bubbling. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously. It will thicken and start leaving the sides of the pan as you stir. Remove from the stove and let it cool.

Heat two cups of water in a pan. When it starts bubbling, add the oil and the rice flour in a slow stream and stir continuously. This will avoid lumps from forming. When the water has evaporated and the dough has thickened, remove from stove and let it cool. Place the cool dough in a food processor and knead well.

Grease the palm of your hand with a touch of ghee. Take about one and half tablespoons of dough in the palm and flatten it to a three-inch disc. Place a large tablespoon of the coconut filling in the middle of the disc and seal the modakam to a smooth round ball. Repeat with remaining dough and filling. Heat about two quarts of water in a steamer over medium heat and place the steamer insert. The water should be below the insert and should not touch it. Place the modakams in a layer on the insert, cover and steam for 25 to 30 minutes.

Makes 20 to 25