Welcome to our Diwali Dinner Party, where we have curated a menu that reflects the rich and diverse culinary traditions of India. Each dish a delightful celebration of flavours and textures. Our menu has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a delectable journey from fragrant appetizers to sumptuous main courses and decadent desserts. Every dish on this menu is a testament to the joy and togetherness that Diwali brings. So, sit back, relax, and indulge in a feast that not only honours tradition but also embraces the spirit of this special occasion.
What is Diwali?
Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights. Also known as Deepavali, it is a vibrant and significant festival celebrated by millions of people around the world. It marks the victory of light over darkness and the homecoming of Lord Rama after his triumph over the demon king Ravan. This special event is characterized by the lighting of lamps, colourful decorations, feasting, and the exchange of gifts, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the celebration of hope and prosperity. Certain Diwali food is unique to this time of the year so you will not find the usual daily curries here – this food menu is curated for a special festive meal. The festive season is all about indulgence and I love to showcase the best recipes during special occasions! Afterall, the Diwali celebration is the biggest Indian festival of the year! To see my FULL list of 150+ recipes, browse this Diwali Sweets and Snacks – you will find Gujarati, Bengali, North Indian sweets including halwa, barfi and penda. There are also lots of different snacks. For a Diwali Dinner Party, I would suggest picking one or two starters, one or two main courses, a rice dish, a bread and a dessert or two!
Diwali Snacks
Dry snacks such as chivda are a great appetizer!
Diwali Dinner Starters
Indian Street Food: Serve this popular street food as an exciting appetizer! If serving, try to keep a gap before serving out the mains – I find that the strong flavours of chaat can make the mains seem a bit dull. See my full list of chaat recipes
Diwali Dinner Main course ideas
Serve these showstopping curries for Diwali that are full of rich buttery flavors. It is a great alternative to Paneer Butter Masala. Vegetable Paneer Makhanwala – without onion and garlic See my full list of curry recipes
Sides
Rice dishes
Jeera rice – this remains the perfect side dish for curries and dals. It is delicately perfumed with cumin yet doesn’t overpower any other flavours. See my full list of rice dishes
Dips
Breads
Crispy puri is often served in Gujarati households during the festival of Diwali. You could also go for Garlic and Coriander Butter Naan or Peshwari Naan which is stuffed with rich coconut and sultana Rotlis (rotis) or Chapatis will pair well with pretty much any main course.
Diwali Sweets Menu
For a complete list of modern Indian sweets, visit this Indian Fusion Desserts selection. These are the most popular Indian desserts during Diwali but you could also browse this list of Indian sweets or Indian Milk Sweets For guests who are following low sugar and low fat diet, serve fresh fruits or dry fruits. The following sweets are all made with gram flour (chickpea flour) but the techniques and adjustments in ingredients give them all unique flavours and textures This is a quick version of the traditional recipe as it is made with ready made kataifi pastry
Diwali Drinks Menu
Wishing you a very Happy Diwali! As always if you make this recipe, be sure to leave me a comment, rate this recipe and tag me on Instagram @jcookingodyssey or #jcookingodyssey. I love seeing all your photos of my recipe recreations! Don’t forget to follow me on social media using the buttons below – I can’t wait to see you all there!
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