Nariyal Barfi: Coconut Bliss
Nariyal Barfi, a beloved Indian sweet, is a staple during Diwali. Its simplicity and rich coconut flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. To prepare, you'll need
fresh or desiccated coconut, sugar, milk (or milk powder), and cardamom for that aromatic touch. The process involves gently cooking the coconut mixture with sugar until it thickens. The key is to achieve the perfect consistency before setting it into squares or diamonds. This delightful treat is not only easy to make but also embodies the festive essence of Diwali with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet aroma. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a quick and tasty dessert option.
Zafrani Kaju Katli: Royal Treat
Zafrani Kaju Katli, a premium sweet, is crafted from cashew nuts, adding a touch of royalty to the Diwali festivities. The saffron strands infuse the kaju katli with a regal look and a subtle floral note. The process involves making a paste with the cashews, sugar and water which is then cooked to the appropriate consistency. This is then flattened and cut into diamond shapes, often garnished with edible silver leaf. The resulting sweet is a rich combination of nutty and floral notes, perfect for gifting or sharing during Diwali. The inclusion of saffron distinguishes it from the basic Kaju Katli, adding a layer of sophistication.
Shahi Tukda: Regal Delight
Shahi Tukda presents a delightful contrast in textures and tastes. This dessert highlights fried bread pieces soaked in a sweet syrup, often enriched with cardamom and saffron. These bread pieces are typically deep-fried until golden and crispy, then immersed in a sugar syrup. The dish is usually garnished with nuts and often served with rabri or a creamy, thickened milk. Shahi Tukda is a sweet that combines the crunch of fried bread with the sweetness of syrup, and it is a festive dessert suitable for occasions like Diwali.
Mohanthal: Besan Sweetness
Mohanthal is a traditional Indian sweet, popular for its rich, crumbly texture. Its main ingredient is besan (gram flour), which is roasted slowly in ghee until fragrant. The roasted besan is then mixed with sugar syrup, often including nuts and spices for flavor. The mixture is set in a tray and then cut into squares. The result is a delicious treat with a unique grainy texture, making it a beloved choice for festivals. Its preparation involves patience as the besan must be roasted at the right temperature.
Dahi Bhalla: Yogurt Perfection
Dahi Bhalla is a savory dish perfect for balancing the sweets often eaten during Diwali. These are essentially lentil fritters, soaked in water to soften them. The softened fritters are then added to creamy yogurt, garnished with spices and chutneys. The combination of cooling yogurt with spicy chutneys offers a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness. This popular dish can be prepared in advance, allowing for easy serving during festive gatherings.
Moong Dal Samosa: Savory Delight
Moong Dal Samosa introduces a savory element to the Diwali menu. These samosas are filled with a flavorful mixture of moong dal (split green gram), spices, and herbs. The samosas are deep-fried until golden and crispy, making them a popular snack during festive times. Their crunchy texture combined with the spiced filling makes Moong Dal Samosas a hit among all ages. They are perfect for snacking and great for gatherings.
Ajwaini Chakli: Crunchy Snack
Ajwaini Chakli provides a savory, crunchy snack. These are made from rice flour and a mix of spices, with ajwain (carom seeds) lending its distinctive flavor. The dough is shaped into spiral patterns and then deep-fried until crispy. Ajwaini Chakli is often a staple in Diwali snacks due to its simplicity and the unique flavor imparted by the ajwain seeds. They are an easy snack.
