Lord Ganesha occupies a significant place in Hindu mythology, the beloved son of Lord Shiva is always the first god to be worshipped before every puja. Lord Ganesha is also known as ‘Vighnaharta’, which means the remover of troubles, and on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, devotees bring idols of Ganesha home for prosperity and happiness. The 11-day festival is celebrated with grand opulence across Maharashtra and some parts of South India. Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are also incomplete without festive delicacies, sweets play a crucial role in the bhog and prasad, and yes, there are options galore beyond Modak.
1. Chocolate Modak
Give your modak a chocolatey spin with this easy recipe. Steamed dumplings filled with chocolate spread, this modak is going to be a hit across the house. Lord Ganesha is also known as 'Modakpriya' or lover of Ladoos, therefore, this year, up your 'modak game' with this recipe.
2. Rava Ladoo
Rava or semolina is used to make a variety of delicacies, but when it comes to desserts, somehow, we cannot think beyond the standard halwa. Rava Coconut Laddoo is an immensely popular Ganesh Chaturthi dessert that is usually prepared at home only. Semolina gives this laddoo a firm shape, and coconut a delectable creaminess, together they spell magic.
3. Coconut Barfi
Barfi is an Indian fudge that is made with a combination of ingredients. It can be made with any lentil, nut or fruit, but one of our all-time favourites has to be Coconut Barfi. Grated coconut mixed with sugar and milk, shaped in rectangular pieces, this sweet is easy to make and oh-so-irresistible.
4. Boondi Laddoo
The literal translation of ‘boondi’ is pearls. For this popular laddoo, pearl-sized, besan balls are combined with sugar, cardamom, and cloves to make a sweet treat that makes every desi’s heart aflutter. This orange ladoo is part of almost every Hindu pooja and this year, you have to make it at home.
5. Mysore Pak
In addition to Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi is a big festival in Karnataka too and you know what else is popular in Karnataka, you guessed it, it is Mysore Pak. The soft and velvety fudge made with besan, sugar and oodles of ghee was actually a product of an accident. Named after the city it was conceived in, Mysore Pak, with its lovely golden hue would look spectacular in your Bhog Thali.
6. Kalakand
Kalakand is white, milk fudge that is so soft that it practically melts in your mouth. Its creamy and grainy texture is addictive. All you need to make this is fresh, full-fat milk, sugar and lemon juice. Top it with chopped pistachio and you have a wholesome home-made mithai.
7. Gulab Jamun
Soft, deep-fried khoya balls dipped in sugar syrup. There, you have started slurping already. Gulab Jamun is a favourite across festivals and special occasions, and how can we possibly keep it out of the list. With the help of this easy-peasy recipe, you can make gulab jamun in just under 30 minutes.