Diwali is the Indian “festival of lights” which is celebrated by millions of people around the world every autumn. This holiday is usually a five-day celebration that includes many traditions such as family gatherings, candle lighting, and of course the most delicious foods and treats. This year Diwali begins on Saturday, 14 November 2020. Take a look at some of the best, traditional foods that are enjoyed during Diwali.
The Best Traditional Diwali Foods
Rice Kheer
Rice Kheer is one of the most classic dishes which are always included in any Indian festival. Kheer is a pudding made by boiling milk and sugar with rice, tapioca, broken wheat, vermicelli, or corn. Usually raisins, cashew, saffron, or other dry fruits and nuts. Rice Kheer is normally eaten cold and is definitely one of the most delicious meals that are enjoyed at every Indian celebration.
Aloo Tikki
The next symbolic food that is always eaten on Diwali is a small fried like potato pancake that is usually crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The potatoes are first mashed and then the peas and spices are added before the entire thing is dipped into an egg wash before being fried. This delicacy is generally served with some of the best regional sauces or curried spices. “Aloo” means potato and “Tikki” means small cutlet or croquette.
Samosa
Samosas are quite common to many people around the world. This traditional food is small pockets of pastry that are typically shaped into triangles, then they are stuffed with anything from minced meat to peas, lentils, or any other vegetables. It’s really hard to say no to a mouth-watering crispy, spicy samosa. Although Samosa is eaten throughout the year, they become a lot more popular around Diwali.
Gujiya
No Indian household can celebrate Diwali without gujiyas! Gujiya’s is a sweet, deep-fried dumpling that is made with suji or maida stuffed with a mixture of sweetened khoa and dried fruits. Prior to Diwali, it is very common to find that all family members gather together at one place to prepare this amazing, traditional food. It is the perfect combo of creamy and sweet flavors which will instantly lighten up anyone’s mood.
Chai Tea
Chai Tea is technically not a food, but this classic beverage is loved by all during Diwali especially as it can easily be paired with delightful treats and desserts. Hot or cold, chai tea is made by brewing black tea in milk and water with a mixture of aromatic spices and herbs such as cinnamon, fennel or cardamom. As Chai Tea actually originated in India is it only natural that it is included as one of the best traditional items.
Chirote
This Diwali food is a light and flaky dessert pastries. It is prepared by rolling out kneaded dough made of maida into layered circular shapes and then deep-frying it in ghee or refined oil. It will then look like a semi golden brown fluffy poori, which is then sprinkled with quite a lot of powdered sugar and or grated almonds and cashew. Usually, it is served as a dessert on special occasions such as a festival or a wedding
