Yummy Modak for Dogs: Indian Desserts for Dogs!

Ganeshotsav in a Maharashtrian household is a whole feeling. It’s welcoming Bappa home, decorating the house, visiting pandals, the smell of something delicious cooking in the kitchen, and of course, making Ganpati Bappa’s favourite dessert: sweet little modaks. ❤️

What makes ukadiche modak extra special is the way they’re made. Unlike the usual fried or mithai-style modaks, ukadiche modak are soft, steamed rice flour dumplings with a delicious mixture of fresh coconut and jaggery on the inside. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight out of the steamer.

And this Ganeshotsav, why not make a few little modaks for your own little Ganesh at home too?

These modaks for dogs are a simple, dog-friendly take on the traditional recipe. We’ve skipped the sugar and jaggery, while keeping the soft steamed rice flour covering and a simple coconut-based filling. It’s a lovely homemade addition to your list of Indian sweets for dogs, so your dog can have a little something special while the family celebrates Bappa.

 

Modak for Dogs: Full Recipe

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the outer covering:

• ½ cup brown rice flour or oat flour
• ¾ cup water
• 1 tsp coconut oil or ghee, optional

For the inner filling:

• ¼ cup freshly grated coconut
• 2 tbsp mashed paneer
• A pinch of elaichi powder, optional
• 1 tsp honey (not for dogs younger than 1 year of age)

 

Instructions:

• Make the ukad/rice cover: Bring the water to a boil. Lower the heat and slowly add the rice flour, stirring continuously so there are no lumps.
• Make the dough: Cover and let it sit for 3–4 minutes. Once it is cool enough to handle, knead it into a soft, smooth dough. If it feels dry, add a tiny amount of coconut oil or ghee.
• Prepare the filling: Mix the grated coconut with the mashed paneer and elaichi powder and honey, if using.
• Shape the modaks: Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one into a thin circle. Place a little filling in the centre and gently pinch the edges together to create a small modak.
• Steam: Place the modaks in a steamer and steam for about 8–10 minutes, until the outer covering is cooked through.
• Cool and serve: Let the modaks cool completely before offering one to your dog.

Image is for representation only, final result will depend on your modak moulding skills!

Storage Instructions:

These modaks are best enjoyed fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 1 day and frozen for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

 

Nutritional Benefits:

• Oats flour: A great source of fibre, promoting digestive health.
• Coconut: Boosts immunity, anti-inflammatory, supports skin & coat.
• Paneer: Builds muscle, is high in calcium, gentle on the stomach.
• Ghee: Supports joints, boosts energy, promotes healthy skin & coat.
• Cardamom (Elaichi): Aids digestion, helps reduce gas and bloating.
• Honey: Immune support, natural allergy relief (not for pups under 1 year of age)

 

Important Notes

• This is an occasional treat and should be given in moderation. Remember, treats should make up roughly 10% or less of your dog's daily calorie intake.
• Do not give honey to dogs under one year of age.
• Always ensure fresh drinking water is available.

 

Festivals are often about sharing what we love with the whole family, and our dogs are very much part of that family. So, this Ganesh Chaturthi, while you're making a batch of modaks for everyone at home, make a few tiny modaks for your dog too.

They may not understand what Ganesh Chaturthi is, but they certainly know when something special is being made just for them. :)

 

Happy festivities to you and your pup!

 

A special thanks to canine nutritionist Arpita Thakur for vetting the nutritional information in this recipe!