How to shape perfect modaks

• Step

  1

  

  Make a ball from the rice dough.

• Step

  2

  

  Flatten it with your fingers or on your palms to make a shallow bowl-like shape.

• Step

  3

  

  Place the modak filling in the centre.

• Step

  4

  

  Then, slowly press the edges, bring them together and join them at the top. Remember it is crucial to have some room between the filing and the casing. This helps in getting those perfect pleats.

• Step

  5

  

  Now, gently, using just two fingers, make four or five vertical pleats on the casing.

• Step

  6

  

  Arrange modaks in a tray with ample space between them to retain their shape.