Try these healthier KICKED UP version of popular Diwali snacks. These can be prepared ahead of time and travels well and stays fresh for few days.
India is the land of festivals, each region celebrating its own unique customs and cultures. Among these Diwali stands out as the most widely celebrated among the Indian diaspora. There is gift giving, sugar overload, decorations, entertainment, light displays and parties. What more can you ask for in a festival?
The sweet boxes are a mandatory part of celebrations. There are thee pretty packaged sweets, assortment of nut and much more. As much as I love to sample to various flavors of soan papai and ladoos after a few dozen packs (sampling of course!) , I find myself craving for something salty, spicy and large pitcher of water (or smoothing stronger).
It is not just I; even the sugar monsters in the family start looking for something to take the edge off.
So I asked a few blogger friends to share their Diwali savory fixes, and here we have a collection of traditional but kicked up versions.
These are all fried crispy snacks that stay fresh for a few days. Usually snacks like these were what freed the ladies from non stop cooking and feeding. A few of these mad e in bulk and stored in airtight containers made their days easier, freeing them to entertain and enjoy the festivities more.
Try some of these kicked up versions along with your traditional family favorites this year – some are healthier , some are prettier and some are spicier.
1.Acahri Matri
Achar is the Indian pickle. These pickles usually have liberal dose of chilies and other spices. Like the name suggests this snack is made with Achar spices. Not only is it spicier, it is made with whole wheat flour too. A kicked up Diwali snack that is that is healthier too — how much better can it get ? Try the Achari Matri from Astha’s Kitchen
2.Bengali Elo Jhelo
Doesn’t it look pretty ? It reminds me of the champak flower that is just beginning to bloom. This is a savory version of Bengali Elo Jhelo from Motions and Emotions.
3.Namkeen Khaja
Khaja is lovely version of the most common matri. Think of matri as a flaky biscuit (cookie) that is fried. The most common version being made with flour, ghee, a pinch of salt and cumin or carom seeds. I loved the shape of this one.
Here is the savory khaja from Cook With Renu. Tea time can’t come any sooner !
4.Millet Murukku
This picture took me back to the days when mom used to make fresh snacks for us when we get back home from school ?. There is something very comforting here – the warmth of the hot oil , the flavors wafting through the air, and carefree munching of the growing up year.
Oh did I mention that it is nutritionally dense ? Millets are a powerhouse of good things – but who cares it tastes good – and that’s all that matters now ?.
Here is the millet murukku or chakali from Cooking With Pree.
5.Sev
This is one unassuming snack. It does not look or taste spectacular, but you can munch on these endlessly ! Have a few of these with lemon rice or tomato rice. Make a simple gravy an serve when unexpected guests arrive. Or just serve these with chai while you try to figure dinner out !
Sev is so versatile, I couldn’t resist adding this from Cook With Renu.
What are your favorite DIWALI snacks ? Comment below and let me know .