Jilledu kayalu Recipe (Andhra Steamed Modak)

Jilledukayalu are a beloved festive sweet from Andhra Pradesh, prepared especially during Vinayaka Chavithi (Ganesh Chaturthi). These steamed rice dumplings, filled with a sweet coconut–jaggery mixture, are offered as Naivedyam to Lord Ganesha, who is known as Modakapriya — “lover of modak.”

The act of preparing Jilledukayalu is not just about cooking; it’s a devotional ritual, often done early in the morning after a ceremonial bath, with prayers and chants filling the kitchen. Families come together, elders guide the shaping, and children join in, making it a cherished tradition.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 cup grated coconut
• ½ cup jaggery
• 1–2 pods cardamom (powdered)
• 1 tbsp ghee

For the Dough

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1½ to 2 cups water
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil

Preparation Method

 1 . Make the Filling

1. Heat a pan and add grated coconut and jaggery.
2. Cook on medium-low until the jaggery melts and blends with coconut.
3. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and no excess moisture remains.
4. Add cardamom powder and ghee, mix well, and allow to cool.

 2 . Prepare the Dough

1. In a separate pan, boil water with salt and ghee/oil.
2. Reduce heat and add rice flour gradually, stirring quickly to avoid lumps.
3. Turn off the flame, cover, and let it rest for 3–4 minutes.
4. Knead into a smooth, soft dough while still warm.

 3 . Shape the Jilledukayalu

1. Take lemon-sized portions of the dough.
2. Flatten each into a small disc with your fingers.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center.
4. Fold and seal into a semi-circular or modak shape.

 4 . Steam

1. Arrange them on a greased idli plate or steamer tray.
2. Steam for 6–8 minutes until the outer layer looks glossy and set.
3. Let them cool slightly before offering to the deity or serving.

Tips

• Use fresh grated coconut for the best aroma and texture.
• Do not over-steam, as the dumplings may turn hard.
• Keep dough covered with a damp cloth while shaping to prevent drying.
• If using modak molds, grease lightly for easy release.

Variations

• Poornam Jilledukayalu – Replace coconut filling with chana dal–jaggery mixture.
• Fried Version – Instead of steaming, deep fry for a crisp outer shell.
• Mixed Nuts Filling – Add chopped cashews or almonds for extra crunch.

Health Benefits

• Coconut provides healthy fats and fiber, aiding digestion.
• Jaggery is rich in minerals like iron and magnesium, making it a better alternative to refined sugar.
• Steaming instead of frying makes this a lighter, low-oil sweet option.
• Rice flour is naturally gluten-free, suitable for those avoiding wheat.