We have already seen some interesting traditions and rituals during Diwali, the festival of lights. In this article we’ve described some common traditional sweets and desserts. Today we invite you to look at some other dishes that are typically enjoyed during this festive occasion. 

Savory Snacks

Popular savory snacks like samosas, pakoras, chivda, and mathri are enjoyed during Diwali. These crunchy and spicy snacks are meant to be shared with family and friends.

Samosas are triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, lentils, or minced meat. The filling is enclosed in a crispy, fried outer pastry shell. Samosas are seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. They are often served with tamarind or mint chutney.

Pakoras (Pakodas) are deep-fried fritters made by coating vegetables (such as onions, potatoes, spinach, or cauliflower) or paneer in a spiced chickpea flour batter. They are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Pakoras are commonly enjoyed with green chutney or ketchup and are a popular snack enjoyed during monsoon seasons.

Chivda (Chiwda) is a savory and crunchy snack mix made from a combination of ingredients like flattened rice (poha), peanuts, fried lentils, curry leaves, and spices. There are many variations of chivda, such as spicy chivda, sweet chivda, or a mix of both. This popular snack is often enjoyed with tea or as a light munching option.

Mathri are flaky, crispy, deep-fried crackers that are commonly made from a dough of all-purpose flour, semolina, and spices like carom seeds (ajwain) and cumin. Mathri can have variations such as adding fenugreek leaves (methi) or black pepper for added flavor. They are great as a tea-time snack or as an accompaniment to pickle or chutney.

These snacks are not only delicious but also have a special place in Indian cuisine and culture. They are often enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, or as everyday treats with a hot cup of chai (tea).

Vegetarian Curries 

Vegetarian curries like paneer masala, chana masala, and aloo gobi are often prepared for the main meal during Diwali. These dishes are flavorful and aromatic, perfect for a festive feast.

Paneer Masala is a rich and creamy Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy. The paneer is usually cubed and simmered in a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. It is finished with a touch of cream and garnished with fresh coriander leaves. This dish is often enjoyed with rice or naan (Indian flatbread).

Chana Masala, also known as Chole Masala, is a popular North Indian curry made with chickpeas cooked in a tangy and spicy tomato-based gravy. The chickpeas are simmered with onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of ground spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. This dish is typically garnished with fresh coriander leaves and served with rice, roti (Indian bread), or bhatura (deep-fried bread).

Aloo Gobi is a classic vegetarian curry made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) cooked in a fragrant blend of spices. The vegetables are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala until they are tender and flavorful. Aloo Gobi is a comforting and delicious dish that pairs well with roti, naan, or rice.

These vegetarian curries are not only popular in India but also loved by people worldwide for their delicious flavors and comforting textures. They are a great way to enjoy the diverse and vibrant culinary tradition of Indian cuisine.

Rice Dishes

Pulao, biryani, and khichdi are commonly served during Diwali meals. These rice dishes are often accompanied by lentils, vegetables, and a variety of spices.

Pulao, also known as Pilaf, is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made by cooking rice with aromatic spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat or nuts. The rice is typically cooked in a seasoned broth along with ingredients like onions, garlic, ginger, and whole spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Pulao can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian, with variations like vegetable pulao, chicken pulao, and mutton pulao. It is often garnished with fried onions, fresh herbs, and nuts, and served as a main dish or accompaniment to curries or kebabs.

Biryani is a popular and elaborate Indian dish made with fragrant, spiced rice layered with marinated meat or vegetables and cooked together. There are various types of biryanis, such as Hyderabadi biryani, Lucknowi biryani, and Kolkata biryani, each with its unique flavors and cooking techniques. The key to a good biryani is the use of long-grain Basmati rice, a blend of aromatic spices, and slow-cooking methods that allow the flavors to meld together. Biryani is often accompanied by raita (yogurt-based condiment) and salad.

Khichdi is a comforting one-pot meal made with rice and lentils (usually moong dal) cooked together with minimal spices. Khichdi is considered a wholesome and nutritious dish in Indian cuisine, often eaten during periods of fasting or as a light meal. It is a simple and easily digestible dish that is believed to have healing properties. Khichdi is typically served with ghee (clarified butter), yogurt, pickle, or papad (crispy lentil flatbread) to enhance its flavors.

These traditional Hindu meals not only have deep-rooted culinary traditions but also hold cultural significance in various regions of India. Each dish offers a unique blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that make them popular choices for special occasions or everyday meals.

Traditional Bread

Roti, naan, and puri are staple bread options served during Diwali meals. These bread varieties complement the curries and rice dishes perfectly.

Fruit Chaat

A refreshing and colorful fruit chaat is often prepared as a light and healthy snack during Diwali. This dish provides a burst of freshness amidst the rich and indulgent festive spread.

Special Drinks

Drinks like lassi, masala chai, and thandai are popular during Diwali. These beverages enhance the festive spirit and complement the flavors of the traditional Diwali dishes.

The significance of these traditional meals during Diwali lies in the celebration of good over evil, light over darkness, and the coming together of loved ones. Food plays a central role in Indian culture and festivals, and sharing these delicious meals with family and friends during Diwali strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.

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