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Diwali is synonymous with indulgence, and milk-based sweets play a central role in the festive celebrations. Milk is a common ingredient during the festivities. These delectable treats, characterised by their creamy texture and rich flavours, are crafted using fresh milk, sugar, and a variety of traditional ingredients. The process often involves simmering milk to create a thickened base, which is then sweetened and flavoured with aromatic spices.
Video Credit: Kanak's Kitchen
The versatility of these sweets allows for a delightful range of options, from soft and spongy to rich and dense. Many are garnished with nuts and cardamom, adding an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance. The preparation of these desserts is often a communal activity, bringing families together in the spirit of joy and festivity.
These milk-based delights are not just treats; they symbolise the sweetness of relationships and the joy of sharing with loved ones. During Diwali, these mithais are also exchanged as gifts. Their presence at celebrations adds a layer of nostalgia, reminding everyone of cherished traditions. Here are some milk-based treats to try for Diwali.
Gulab Jamun
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Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian sweet that is a must-have during Diwali celebrations. These small, round dumplings are made from khoya (reduced milk) or milk powder, which gives them a rich and soft texture. The dough is shaped into balls and deep-fried until golden brown before being soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup flavored with cardamom and rose water. The warm, syrupy sweetness makes Gulab Jamun a favourite. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Rasgulla
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While its point of origin in debatable, Rasgulla is another iconic milk-based sweet that captures the essence of festive celebrations. These soft, spongy balls from West Bengal and Odisha are made from chenna (fresh paneer) and are cooked in a light sugar syrup. The process involves kneading the chenna to achieve a smooth consistency, forming small balls, and then boiling them in syrup until they become fluffy and absorb the sweet liquid. Rasgulla is known for its delicate texture.
Barfi
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Barfi is a popular Indian sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often flavored with cardamom, saffron, or fruit purees. There are many variations of barfi, including Kaju Barfi (made with cashew nuts), Pista Barfi (made with pistachios), and Coconut Barfi. The key to making a good barfi is achieving the right consistency; it should be thick enough to set properly yet soft enough to melt in your mouth. Barfi is garnished with silver or gold leaf (varak) for an elegant touch, making it a perfect gift for Diwali.
Kheer
Kheer is a creamy rice pudding made from milk, sugar, and rice, often flavoured with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. This traditional Indian dessert is versatile, with variations like Seviyan Kheer (made with vermicelli) and Quinoa Kheer. The preparation involves cooking rice or vermicelli in milk until it becomes soft and creamy, then adding sugar and garnishing with nuts and dried fruits. Kheer is served warm or chilled, and its rich, comforting flavours make it a delightful addition to the Diwali menu. It’s often prepared in large quantities for family gatherings, symbolising abundance and festivity.
Rasmalai
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Rasmalai is a delectable dessert that features soft chenna balls soaked in sweet, thickened milk (ras) flavoured with cardamom and garnished with slivered almonds and pistachios. The process begins with making Rasgullas, which are then immersed in a rich, creamy milk sauce. The milk is typically simmered with sugar and spices to create a luxurious texture. Rasmalai is served chilled, making it a refreshing treat after a rich Diwali meal. Its creamy sweetness and delicate flavours make it a favourite among those with a sweet tooth, ensuring it’s a hit during celebrations.
Milk Cake (Kalakand)
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Kalakand, also known as milk cake, is a soft and grainy sweet made from fresh chenna and sugar. This delightful treat is prepared by cooking chenna with sugar and then allowing it to set in a tray. It is flavoured with cardamom and often garnished with nuts. The unique texture and the melt-in-the-mouth quality make Kalakand a special addition to the Diwali dessert spread. It’s an excellent option for gifting, as it can be cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to share with friends and family during the festive season.
Peda
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Peda is a popular Indian sweet made from khoya and sugar, flavoured with cardamom. The process involves cooking khoya until it thickens, adding sugar and cardamom, and then shaping the mixture into small discs or balls. It is soft, rich, and mildly sweet, making it a delightful treat for Diwali. Variants such as Chocolate Peda and Coconut Peda offer exciting twists on the traditional recipe, catering to different palates. Peda is often distributed during festivals as a gesture of goodwill, symbolising sweetness and happiness in relationships.
