Deepavali – The Sweets, The Snacks and the Substantial

Makansutra – Mon, Oct 24, 2011 3:20 PM SGT
Text and images by Lorraine Koh @ Makansutra (yahoo.com.sg)

Nothing quite lights up one face, like good food. With Deepavali,
otherwise known as the Festival of Lights around the corner, our
Indian friends can look forward to precious moments with good food and
good company. "Deepavali is one of the most pleasant periods of the
year. There is a lot of celebration and the season where you can
expect prosperity!" says Chef Milind Sovani , head chef at The Song
of India. So what are the munchies involved in Deepavali? In essence,
there are the sweets, snacks and more substantial dishes.

The Sweets

The sweets include Jalebi, Bal Mithai and Bondi Laddu. Word of
caution: Indians really like their desserts super sweet, and this may
not sit well with those of us without a natural sweet tooth.

"In the Indian culture, Indian sweets symbolise either the spreading
of good news or an event of celebration such as Deepavali. The Hindus
believe that sweets are the best way of expressing happiness and
goodness," says Chef Sheikh Asabulla, head chef at Zaffron Kitchen.

"We have a saying 'make our friends' palette sweet' which translates
to sharing our joy with friends," adds Sovani.

The Snacks

Savoury snacks include different varieties of Murukku. This crunchy
snack is made from urad and rice flour with various flavourings like
chilli or cumin added. Although murukku is available throughout the
year, it's still a must-have item at the Indian household.

"Deepavali sweets and snacks are usually prepared a week in advance
and compared to other Indian snacks, they can be stored for a longer
period of time," says Sovani. The reason for this is because Deepavali
is typically celebrated over a period of five days. These snacks can
only be bought during Deepavali. He adds, "Due to the fast pace of
city life, few families make these sweets and savouries from scratch.
There are now many Indian companies who are able to courier these
snacks anywhere in the world, during Deepavali. I have to say, the
taste is also authentic."

The Substantial

"Deepavali is essentially the celebration of bringing light into the
world and the triumph of good over evil and therefore, Hindus come
together to have family meals after sunset as the coming together
symbolises the harmony present amongst loved ones. Thus, bringing
light and hope to everyone around during this festive period," says
Asabulla. There are many homecooked dishes Indian families can look
forward to like Mutton Mysore, Dum Chicken Briyani and Chicken
Chettinad.

The Indians also observe some religious rituals which involve food
during this occasion. Sovani says, "During Deepavali, the lady of the
house will get up early, bathe and offer her worship to the gods
before preparing food for the family." Asabulla adds that Hindus make
it a point to present offerings such as fresh fruit and home-made
desserts when they visit the temple during this festive season.

Asabulla, who hails from North India, remarks, "In India, it is
priority to spend Deepavali at home with loved ones and to enjoy a
hearty home-cooked meal with great music, laughter and happiness.
Although this is common for Singaporeans, the factor of spending more
and going out of the house to commemorate the festivities of Deepavali
is also observed."

From Makansutra and Makanation, we wish all our Hindu friends a happy Deepavali!