What special foods are eaten on Diwali?

As a cultural and culinary expert with a deep appreciation for the diversity of global traditions, I am delighted to delve into the topic of special foods associated with Diwali, the festival of lights celebrated by millions across the globe, particularly in India. Diwali is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration, and it is marked by a variety of sumptuous and symbolic foods that are not only enjoyed by families and friends but also play a significant role in the rituals and festivities of the holiday. Diwali Sweets (Mithai): 1. Jalebis: These are spiral-shaped, deep-fried sweets that are often soaked in sugar syrup. They are a favorite due to their crunchy texture and sweet taste, symbolizing the sweetness of life. 2. Gulab Jamun: A classic Indian dessert made from a dough of milk solids that is deep-fried and then soaked in a sugar syrup. The sweet is often garnished with nuts and saffron, adding a touch of luxury to the celebration. 3. Shankarpale: These are diamond-shaped delights from the state of Gujarat, made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and spices, then deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. 4. Kheer: A milk-based dessert that is often flavored with cardamom, nuts, and dried fruits. It is a comforting dish that signifies prosperity and is often shared among family and friends. 5. Gajar Ka Halwa: A delicious pudding made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and various nuts. This sweet is particularly popular during the autumn season when carrots are in abundance. 6. Kajoo Barfi: A barfi is a type of Indian fudge, and kajoo refers to cashew. This barfi is made with cashew nuts, sugar, and milk, resulting in a rich and creamy dessert. 7. Suji Halwa: Also known as semolina halwa, this is a semolina-based dessert cooked with ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom. It is a popular choice for its simplicity and delightful taste. 8. Besan Ke Ladoo: These are round, sweet balls made from gram flour (besan), sugar, and ghee. They are often garnished with nuts and are a favorite for their easy-to-make nature and delightful taste. 9. Karanji: A flaky, stuffed pastry filled with a mixture of sugar, coconut, and nuts, often shaped into crescents. They are a traditional part of Diwali celebrations in some regions. Savory Dishes: While sweets are the highlight of Diwali, savory dishes also hold a special place in the festivities. Some of the savory favorites include: 1. Samosas: A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. Samosas are a popular snack during Diwali and are often served with chutney. 2. Pakoras: These are fritters made from vegetables like onion, spinach, or cauliflower dipped in a gram flour batter and deep-fried. They are crispy and make for a great appetizer or snack. 3. Kababs: Grilled meat delicacies are also a part of Diwali feasts, especially in North India. They are marinated with a blend of spices and yogurt before being cooked to perfection. 4. Chaat: A variety of street foods known for their tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. Chaat can include items like pani puri, bhel puri, and sev puri, which are all made to be eaten quickly and are very popular during festivals. 5. Puri: A type of deep-fried bread that is often served with a variety of fillings like potato curry or chickpeas, making it a versatile and satisfying dish. 6. Khandvi: A dish from Gujarat made from gram flour and yogurt, rolled into small, thin cylinders. They are often served with a sweet or spicy sauce. These dishes are not only a culinary delight but also carry cultural significance, often symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and togetherness. The preparation and sharing of these foods during Diwali bring families and communities together, reinforcing the bonds of love and friendship.

The list of special Diwali sweets (Mithai) include freshly made Jalebis, Gulab Jamun, Shankarpale, Kheer, Gajar Ka Halwa, Kajoo Barfi, Suji Halwa, Besan Ke Ladoo and Karanji are amongst the most popular during this occasion. Along with sweet dishes there are some savoury favourites too.