Overview
Modak (Marathi: मोदक; Sanskrit: मोदकम्; Kannada: ಮೋದಕ) is an Indian sweet dish popular across several states and cultures. It is known by various regional names, including modakam in Sanskrit, kolukattai or modaka in Kannada, and jilledukayalu (జిల్లేడుకాయలు) in Telugu.
In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, modak is considered one of the favourite dishes of Ganesha and the Buddha, and is therefore offered during prayers and religious observances. Its association with Ganesha in particular has made it a customary offering during festivals dedicated to the deity.
The sweet is prepared with a filling of freshly grated coconut and jaggery, encased in a soft outer shell made from rice flour or wheat flour, sometimes mixed with khowa or maida flour. Modak is generally made in two distinct varieties: fried and steamed. The steamed version, known as Ukadiche Modak, is often served hot with ghee.
References
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article on Modak.