Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for joy, family gatherings, and of course, delicious food! One of the highlights of this celebration is the array of sweets and snacks that bring everyone together. Here, we’ll explore three delightful examples of Diwali sweets and snacks recipes that you can easily make at home to elevate your festive celebrations.
Gulab Jamun is a beloved Indian sweet made from milk solids and flour, soaked in fragrant sugar syrup. It’s a staple during Diwali celebrations and is perfect for sharing with loved ones.
To make Gulab Jamun, start by combining 1 cup of milk powder, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in a bowl. Add in 2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter) and mix well. Gradually add 1/4 cup of milk to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
In the meantime, prepare the sugar syrup by boiling 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water, and add a few cardamom pods for flavor. Once the sugar dissolves, let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Now, heat oil in a pan for deep frying. Shape the dough into small balls and fry them on low heat until golden brown. Once fried, soak the balls in the warm sugar syrup for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy these warm or at room temperature!
Notes: You can also add rose water to the syrup for an aromatic touch. For a healthier version, try baking them instead of frying.
Karanji, also known as Gujiya, is a delightful pastry filled with a sweet mixture of coconut and jaggery, often enjoyed during Diwali.
To create the dough, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of ghee and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
For the filling, combine 1 cup of grated coconut, 1/2 cup of jaggery (or sugar), and a pinch of cardamom powder in a pan. Cook on low heat until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens. Allow it to cool.
Now, roll out the dough into small circles, fill each with a spoonful of the coconut mixture, and fold them into half-moon shapes. Seal the edges using water. Fry the Karanjis in hot oil until they turn golden brown.
Notes: These can also be baked for a healthier alternative. Feel free to experiment with different fillings like khoya or dry fruits!
Sooji Ladoo, made from semolina, is a quick and easy sweet that’s perfect for the festive season. It’s nutty, sweet, and satisfying!
Start by roasting 1 cup of semolina (sooji) in 2 tablespoons of ghee until it turns light golden. This enhances the flavor. Once roasted, add 1/2 cup of sugar and mix well. You can also add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (like cashews and almonds) for added crunch and flavor.
Next, slowly add a little warm milk to the mixture until it binds together. Allow it to cool slightly before shaping it into small round balls (ladoos).
Notes: You can add a pinch of cardamom powder for fragrance or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist! Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
These examples of Diwali sweets and snacks recipes not only highlight the rich culinary heritage of the festival but also offer a chance to create lasting memories with family and friends. Enjoy making these delightful treats and celebrating the joyous spirit of Diwali!