Diwali is much-awaited festival that people wait for across the globe. It’s a festival of lights, which is celebrated with grand feasts that brings family and friends together. During Diwali, most people love to gorge on sweets; however, there are several savoury dishes that finds relevance for this festival. Here is a list of 5 popular snacks that are prepared for Diwali across different regions of India.
Chakli (Murukku)
Chakli, known as Murukku in South India, is a crunchy, spiral-shaped snack that’s a Diwali staple. Made from a combination of rice flour, gram flour, and spices, this snack is deep-fried to golden perfection, giving it a satisfyingly crisp texture. Cumin seeds, sesame seeds, and carom seeds are often added to the dough, infusing the chakli with a subtle earthy flavor and aroma.
In many households, chakli preparation is a family activity during Diwali, with everyone pitching in to make these iconic swirls. The snack is delicious on its own or paired with tea, making it perfect for entertaining guests. Plus, its crunchy texture and savory flavor provide a delightful contrast to the traditional Diwali sweets.
Kachori
Kachori is a beloved Diwali dish, especially popular in Rajasthan and parts of North India. These stuffed, flaky pastries come in various fillings, such as spiced lentils, peas, or a combination of gram flour and aromatic spices. The outer shell is made from all-purpose flour, giving it a crisp, golden-brown texture after frying. The stuffing is flavored with a unique blend of spices, such as fennel, asafoetida, and coriander seeds, adding depth to each bite.
Kachoris are typically served with tangy tamarind or spicy mint chutney, making them a perfect snack to complement the sweet dishes that are also served during Diwali. They are often made in large batches, as they can be stored for several days, making them a convenient and tasty option for festive gatherings.
Aloo Bhujia
Aloo Bhujia, a spicy, crunchy snack made from gram flour and mashed potatoes, is a Diwali favorite in many North Indian households. Seasoned with tangy spices like chaat masala, red chili powder, and turmeric, this savory treat has a mildly spicy flavor that pairs well with festive drinks and sweets.
The preparation involves piping the dough through a sieve or chakli press, which creates thin, noodle-like strands that are deep-fried until crispy. Aloo Bhujia is often served alongside other Diwali snacks, making it a versatile addition to any festive spread. Its light, crunchy texture and spicy flavor make it irresistible, and it’s a snack that guests can keep coming back to throughout the celebrations.
Methi Mathri
Methi Mathri, a popular savory snack from North India, is a flaky, deep-fried cracker made from flour, dried fenugreek leaves (methi), and spices. The addition of fenugreek imparts a slightly bitter, aromatic flavor that balances well with the spices, creating a unique taste that’s both savory and earthy. Mathris are often enjoyed with tea and can be served with pickles or chutneys for added flavor.
This snack is a Diwali essential because it’s easy to store and stays fresh for weeks, making it perfect for serving unexpected guests. Methi Mathri is a traditional choice for Diwali because of its robust flavor, which stands out amid the sweets and richer foods typically enjoyed during the festival.
Dhokla
Dhokla, a steamed savory cake from Gujarat, is a light and fluffy dish made primarily from gram flour or rice and lentil batter. This dish has a soft, spongy texture and is often garnished with mustard seeds, green chilies, and fresh coriander leaves, giving it a beautiful blend of flavors and textures.
Dhokla is served with green chili and sweet tamarind chutney, making it a refreshing snack amidst Diwali’s richer dishes. Its low oil content and steaming process make it a lighter choice for the festival. Dhokla is easy to make in batches and is a popular option for both breakfast and snacks, as it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
