Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is a festival that illuminates homes with lights and fills hearts with joy. One of the most cherished aspects of this celebration is the culinary delight that accompanies it. Traditional sweets and snacks play a significant role in the festivities, symbolizing abundance, joy, and the spirit of sharing. We will explore some of the most popular Deepawali foods, their stories, and simple recipes to recreate these delicious treats at home.
This is 6th Blog in series of total 16 blogs which explores about Traditional Deepawali Sweets and Snacks.
The Significance of Sweets and Snacks During Diwali
Food is an integral part of any celebration, and Diwali is no exception. The preparation and sharing of sweets and snacks are deeply rooted in Indian culture. Traditionally, these delicacies are offered to deities during puja rituals and later shared among family and friends as a gesture of goodwill. Each sweet has its own story, often reflecting regional variations and cultural significance.
Popular Deepawali Sweets
- Gulab Jamun
Background
This iconic dessert has Persian origins and became popular in Indian cuisine during the Mughal era. The sweet, round balls made from khoya (reduced milk) are deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup, making them irresistibly delicious.
Formula
Materials
1 cup khoya (mawa)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
Ghee for frying
Instructions
In a bowl, mix khoya, all-purpose flour, and baking powder until combined.
Knead the mixture into a soft dough, adding a little water if necessary.
Divide the dough into small balls and set aside.
In a pan, heat ghee for frying.
Fry the balls on low heat until golden brown.
In another pan, boil sugar and water to make the syrup. Once it reaches a one-string consistency, remove from heat.
Soak the fried balls in the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Kaju Katli
Background
Known as the “king of sweets,” Kaju Katli is made from cashew nuts and is a favorite during Diwali. Its origins can be traced back to royal kitchens, where it was prepared for special occasions.
Formula
Materials
1 cup cashew nuts
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup water
Silver varak (edible silver leaf), optional
Instructions
Grind the cashew nuts into a fine powder, being careful not to over-grind them into a paste.
In a pan, combine sugar and water, and bring to a boil to make a syrup.
Add the cashew powder to the syrup and cook on low heat, stirring continuously until it forms a dough.
Transfer the mixture to a greased surface and roll it out into a thin layer.
Cut into diamond shapes and garnish with silver varak if using.
- Ladoo
Background
Ladoos are spherical sweets that come in various forms and flavors. They have been a part of Indian festivities for centuries, often made during Diwali as offerings to gods and goddesses.
Formula (Besan Ladoo)
Materials
1 cup besan (gram flour)
½ cup ghee
¾ cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp cardamom powder
Chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions
Heat ghee in a pan and add besan.
Roast the besan on low heat until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Add powdered sugar and cardamom powder, mixing well.
Shape the mixture into small balls and garnish with chopped nuts.
Popular Deepawali Snacks
- Samosas
Background
These crunchy, triangular pastries are stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas. Samosas have a rich history and are believed to have originated in the Middle East before making their way to India, where they became a popular snack.
Formula
Materials
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 medium potatoes (boiled and mashed)
1 cup peas (boiled)
Spices (cumin, coriander, garam masala)
Oil for frying
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a bowl, knead the all-purpose flour with water and salt to form a soft dough. Let it rest.
In another bowl, mix mashed potatoes, peas, and spices to create the filling.
Divide the dough into small balls, roll them into circles, and cut in half.
Shape each half into a cone, fill with the potato mixture, and seal the edges.
Fry the samosas in hot oil until golden brown.
- Chakli (Murukku)
Background
Chakli, a spiral-shaped snack made from rice flour and lentil flour, is a popular crunchy treat during Diwali, especially in Western India. It is often prepared in large quantities to be enjoyed with tea or as a festive snack.
Formula
Materials
2 cups rice flour
½ cup urad dal flour
1 tsp sesame seeds
½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
Salt to taste
Oil for frying
Instructions
In a bowl, mix rice flour, urad dal flour, sesame seeds, ajwain, and salt.
Add water gradually to form a soft dough.
Fill a chakli maker with the dough and press it out in spiral shapes onto a greased surface.
Fry the spirals in hot oil until crispy and golden.
The Joy of Sharing
During Deepawali, the exchange of sweets and snacks is a cherished tradition that fosters goodwill and strengthens bonds among family and friends. As families come together to prepare these treats, the kitchen becomes a hub of laughter, stories, and cherished memories.
Conclusion
Culinary delights are an essential part of Deepawali celebrations. From the sweetness of gulab jamun to the crunchiness of chakli, each dish carries its own story and significance. As you prepare these traditional sweets and snacks, you not only indulge in the festive flavors but also connect with centuries of cultural heritage. This Diwali, let the joy of cooking and sharing these culinary delights illuminate your celebrations and fill your home with love and happiness. Happy Diwali!