Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. Beyond decorating homes and lighting diyas, it’s a time to share delicious meals with family and friends. Preparing a festive and yet easy food menu is one way to make this celebration truly memorable. This year, why not try an all-vegetarian menu that offers a mix of traditional and modern flavours?
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Whether you're hosting a Diwali feast or just enjoying a cosy meal with family, these dishes will bring warmth and joy to your table. From mouth-watering appetisers to hearty main courses and delightful desserts, here’s a curated list of easy vegetarian dishes for a flavourful and satisfying Diwali 2024 celebration.
Appetisers
Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect as an appetiser. Marinate paneer cubes in a yoghurt-based mix seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Skewer and grill them with bell peppers and onions until they’re slightly charred. This dish has a smoky flavour and a creamy texture that goes wonderfully with mint chutney.
Stuffed Mushroom
Stuffed mushrooms add a fun and easy twist to the Diwali spread. Hollow out button mushrooms and fill them with a mixture of paneer, chopped vegetables, and spices. Bake or grill until the filling is golden. This bite-sized starter is creamy and flavourful and makes a perfect addition to the Diwali menu.
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Malai Chaap
Malai chaap is made with marinated soy chaap sticks coated in a creamy mix of cashews and fresh cream. This North Indian delicacy is mild yet rich in flavour, and its creamy texture makes it a delightful choice for guests. Serve it hot with green chutney for a complete experience.
Main Courses
Chole Bhature
A classic North Indian dish, chole bhature combines spicy chickpeas with fluffy, deep-fried bread. The chickpeas, or chole, are cooked in a blend of spices and tomatoes, resulting in a flavourful, tangy curry. The bhature is soft yet crispy on the outside, making it perfect for scooping up the chole.
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Vegetable Biryani
This vegetable biryani is a blend of basmati rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Cooked in a layered style, this biryani is both fragrant and visually appealing. Serve it with cooling raita on the side to balance the spices, creating a main course that’s both hearty and flavourful.
Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a creamy dish made with spinach and paneer. The spinach is pureed and cooked with spices, then mixed with cubes of paneer. This vibrant green dish is healthy and flavourful and pairs well with naan or rice, adding a nutrient-rich option to your Diwali spread.
Image Credits: Freepik
Drinks
Masala Chai
Masala chai is a must-have beverage that adds warmth to the Diwali atmosphere. Brew black tea with spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon, then add milk and sugar. This spiced tea is aromatic and comforting, making it a perfect drink to serve with appetisers or after a meal.
Jaljeera
For a refreshing drink, jaljeera is a fantastic choice. This tangy and mildly spicy drink is made from cumin, mint, and lemon. It’s both flavourful and light, making it a great palate cleanser between rich dishes. Jaljeera is popular for its digestive properties and cooling effect, perfect for balancing out the feast.
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Desserts
Gulab Jamun
Gulab jamun is a traditional dessert that’s a must-have for Diwali. Made from milk solids, these deep-fried balls are soaked in sugar syrup infused with rose water and cardamom. Soft, sweet, and aromatic, they melt in your mouth, making for a perfect way to end the meal.
Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar ka halwa, or carrot pudding, is a popular Diwali dessert. Freshly grated carrots are slow-cooked with milk, sugar, and ghee, then garnished with cardamom and chopped nuts. This rich and flavourful dessert is warm and comforting, ideal for the festive season.