Diwali is a time to celebrate, gather with family, and, of course, eat the traditional Diwali foods. As you prepare for the festivities, why not add a new dimension to your spread with some authentic Maharashtrian snacks?
The rich and varied flavours of Maharashtra will bring you a medley of textures and tastes to make your Diwali more special. These snacks are a reflection of the state’s cuisine, and every bite is an experience of Maharashtrian culture. As you sit with your loved ones, share these traditional snacks to spread joy and create memories that will last. Maharashtrian snacks are not just food; they are an expression of love and togetherness. Whether you are hosting a big celebration or having a quiet evening with family, these will add to the festive spirit. With their unique spices and flavours, there is something for everyone.
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This Diwali, let the real flavours of Maharashtra spice up your celebrations and make your Diwali more special. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the spirit of Diwali with the soul of Maharashtrian cuisine. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
7 Maharashtrian Snacks To Make This Diwali
Batata Vada
Batata Vada is a street food of Maharashtra and is perfect for Diwali snacking. Boiled potatoes mashed with mustard seeds, green chillies, and spices, coated with chickpea flour, and fried to a golden brown. Serve hot with green chutney or tamarind sauce for an extra zing. Crispy outside and soft inside, a crowd-pleaser during festivals.
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Kothimbir Vadi
Kothimbir Vadi is a savoury snack made from besan and fresh coriander. The mixture is seasoned and steamed to a firm cake. Once cooled, it is cut into pieces and shallow-fried until crispy. The green of coriander and the aroma of spices are a treat to the eyes as well as the taste buds. Perfect with tea or as a party appetiser, Kothimbir Vadi is a healthy snack that is quintessentially Maharashtrian.
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Sabudana Vada
Sabudana Vada is a gluten-free crispy snack made from sago pearls. These vadas are made by soaking sago and then mixing it with boiled potatoes, peanuts, and spices. Shaped into small patties and deep-fried until golden brown. Traditionally had during fasting, so perfect for Diwali. Crispy outside and nutty from peanuts, a delightful experience. Pair with a sweet and spicy chutney for a perfect balance.
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Chivda
Chivda is a savoury snack mix that is a must in every Maharashtrian household, especially during festivals. It is flattened rice (poha) sautéed with peanuts, spices, and curry leaves, crunchy and delicious. You can add dried fruits, spices, or fried onions to it to make it more interesting. You can eat Chivda directly, or it can be paired with tea, making it a healthy and delicious option for your Diwali get-together.
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Modak
Modak is a sweet dumpling that is an integral part of Maharashtrian culture, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi but also during Diwali. Made from rice flour and filled with grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom, these dumplings are steamed to perfection. Soft, chewy, and sweet, it’s a heavenly treat that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. You can also make fried modaks for a different twist. Sharing modaks with family and friends during Diwali means sharing the joy of togetherness.
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Puran Poli
Puran Poli is a traditional sweet flatbread stuffed with a delicious mixture of jaggery and yellow split peas (chana dal). The dough is made from wheat flour and rolled out to encase the sweet filling. Once cooked on a hot griddle, the poli is brushed with ghee, enhancing its flavour and richness. This sweet treat is a staple during festive occasions, including Diwali. Its unique combination of sweetness and the nutty flavour of the dal makes it a perfect dessert or snack to enjoy with a cup of milk or chai.
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Bhakarwadi
Bhakarwadi is a spicy, sweet, and tangy spiral snack made from a mixture of gram flour, spices, and coconut. The dough is rolled out, spread with the filling, and then shaped into spirals before being deep-fried until crispy. This unique snack offers a complex flavour profile, making it a delightful addition to any Diwali spread. Serve Bhakarwadi as an appetiser or a snack with tea; its crunchiness and burst of flavours will surely impress your guests. This snack embodies the essence of Maharashtrian culinary traditions, showcasing the region's love for bold and diverse flavours.
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Maharashtrian snacks are more than just snacks; they are culture and tradition that add to your Diwali. Sharing these snacks with family and friends creates memories to cherish, and more to the joy of the festival. Including these snacks in your Diwali celebrations will not only satisfy your cravings but also honour the culinary legacy of Maharashtra and bring everyone together in the festive spirit.