Diwali 2024: Stress-free tips for hosting a memorable Diwali feast

While the excitement of Diwali with family gatherings and celebrations fills the air, the task of planning the perfect Diwali feast can feel overwhelming. Meal planning, especially, often turns into a stressful task, with countless dishes to prepare and guests to impress. However, with careful preparation and thoughtful choices, you can create a memorable celebration.

Here are some top tips for hosting a delightful Diwali feast:

Traditional Sweets: The Heart of Diwali
Traditional sweets, or mithai, are at the core of Diwali celebrations, symbolizing joy, prosperity, and the sweetness of relationships. In India, the diversity of sweets reflects regional cultures: North Indian sweets include Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, Rasmalai, Barfi, and various Ladoos (Besan, Motichoor, Rawa), as well as Shrikhand and Kulfi; South Indian delights feature Mysore Pak, Athirasam, Boondi Ladoo, and Payasam; West Indian specialities include Modak, Shrikhand, Basundi, and Malpua; while East Indian treats showcase Mishti Doi, Bhapa Sandesh, and Rajbhog. Additionally, classic sweets like Halwa (Gajar, Moong Dal, Suji) and Kaju Katli enrich the festive experience

Here are some tips for making the perfect sweets:
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for the best quality ghee, mawa, dry fruits, and nuts. Ideally, these should be locally sourced and freshly packaged to ensure optimal flavours and shelf life for your sweets.

Cool Before Packaging: Allow your sweets to cool completely before packaging them. This step is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can compromise the quality and shelf life of the product.

Mind the Shelf Life: Be aware that milk and curd-based sweets generally have a shorter shelf life compared to dry sweets. It’s advisable to refrigerate these items unless you plan to consume them on the same day.

Use the Right Equipment: For the best results, use a cast iron or heavy-bottomed kadhai with a steady heat source. This prevents the sweets from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Savory Snacks: Perfect Nibbles for Celebrations
Savory snacks play a vital role in Diwali celebrations, these mini fillers stimulate appetite and aid digestion, thanks to their diverse spice blends and flavours. Key Diwali snacks include Samosas, Pakoras, Mathri, Gujiya, Chivda or Seedai often offered as prasad to deities. Modern interpretations of classics, such as chocolate samosas and baked varieties, add a contemporary twist to the celebration.

Tips for Making Savory Snacks
Source Quality Ingredients: To ensure the best flavours, use high-quality spices, maida, and flours from trusted, ideally local, suppliers.
Select the Right Oils: Choose oils and fats based on their smoking points to prevent burning and enhance the overall taste of your snacks.
Store Wisely: Keep snacks in traditional Bharani or modern airtight containers to maintain their freshness for a longer duration.
Timing is Key: Samosas and kachoris have a shelf life of 12 to 14 hours, so it’s best to prepare them on the day of use.
Main Dishes: Hearty Meals to Share
Diwali meals are all about being hearty, filling, and enjoyable, offering a delightful mix of regional cuisines.

Pro Tips for Planning Your Diwali Feast
Plan Grocery Shopping in Advance: Given the festive rush at local markets and supermarkets, it’s crucial to plan your shopping well ahead of time. Prepare a list of essential ingredients and spices, focusing on bulk purchases to avoid last-minute scrambles. Choosing seasonal and fresh produce is key to executing a successful and flavoursful feast.
Embrace the Potluck Concept: Encourage guests to bring their own unique dishes. This not only saves time but also adds an exciting variety to the dining table

Sample Menu- Mains:
Lagan Ke Malai Dal (rich slow-cooked black dal with a drizzle of fresh cream)
Paneer Tikka Makhani (marinated and grilled paneer in a creamy tomato gravy)
Kappa-Chakka Puzhukku with Ulli Chammanthi (tempered tapioca and young jackfruit with spicy chutney)
Khurkhure Bhindi/Baigun Bhaja
Sabz Dum Biryani
Coconut Cilantro Rice

Accompaniments: Elevating the Meal
A Diwali feast reaches its pinnacle of delight when it is complemented by vibrant and enticing accompaniments that enhance both visual and textural appeal. The inclusion of various regional pickles and condiments adds a burst of color and flavours to the spread, transforming the meal into a feast for the senses.
Consider including:
Assorted Pickles: Such as mixed veg and ginger lime, to add a burst of flavours.
Chutneys: A variety, including coconut, tomato, and mint chutneys, will elevate your dining experience.
Festive Beverages: Refreshing Choices
Finally, complement your feast with refreshing beverages that capture the festive spirit. Some delightful options include:
Masala Chai: Infuse your tea with saffron and cardamom for a luxurious touch.
Gajar Ka Sharbat: A refreshing carrot juice blend with spices.

Beverage Tips:
Experiment with modern twists on traditional drinks, such as berry-flavoursed lassis, to please diverse palates.

With thoughtful planning and an understanding of the cultural significance behind each dish, you can create a beautiful celebration that resonates with warmth and joy. Embrace the traditions of Diwali, enjoy the cooking process, and most importantly, cherish the moments shared with loved ones around the dining table.

Thumb and Embed Images Courtesy: istock

Contributed by: Vineeth Jayan, Executive Chef, Den hotel Bangalore