Diwali, the festival of lights, isn't just about dazzling lamps and fireworks; it's also a time to indulge in a wide variety of delicious and mouthwatering snacks.

Diwali snacks, also known as Diwali Faral, are an essential part of the celebration, bringing family and friends together over plates of savory and sweet treats.

Savory Snacks for Diwali

Chakli: The Spiral Delight

Chakli, a crispy, spiral-shaped snack made from rice flour, urad dal, and spices, is one of the most iconic Diwali snacks. Known for its crunchy texture and savory flavor, chakli is often deep-fried to perfection and can be flavored with sesame seeds, cumin, or ajwain. It's a favorite treat that pairs well with tea or on its own during festive gatherings.

Shankarpali: Sweet and Savory Bites

Shankarpali is a Diwali classic that can be enjoyed both in its sweet and savory variations. These small, diamond-shaped bites are made from flour, sugar, ghee, and cardamom and are fried until golden brown. The sweet version is mildly sugary, while the savory option is spiced with cumin or ajwain.

Chivda: Crunchy, Spicy Mixture

Chivda, a spicy and crunchy mix made from flattened rice (poha), peanuts, curry leaves, and spices, is another must-have for Diwali. This light and crispy snack is perfect for munching and is often served to guests. It can be sweetened slightly with jaggery or flavored with chilies for a spicier kick.

Karanji: A Crispy, Flaky Delight

Karanji, also known as Gujiya in northern India, is a crescent-shaped pastry stuffed with sweet coconut, jaggery, and dry fruits. The outer layer is made from maida (all-purpose flour) and fried until golden, giving it a crunchy texture. This rich and sweet treat is a Diwali staple and adds a festive flair to the snack table.

Sweet Treats for Diwali

Ladoo: The King of Diwali Sweets

Ladoos come in various forms, but besan ladoo and boondi ladoo are particularly popular during Diwali. Made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee, besan ladoos are rich and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Boondi ladoos, on the other hand, are made from tiny, fried gram flour balls soaked in sugar syrup. These golden orbs symbolize the sweetness and joy of the festival.

Barfi: Fudgy and Flavorful

Barfi is a soft, fudge-like dessert made from condensed milk, sugar, and a variety of flavorings like pistachio, almond, or coconut. It's often topped with edible silver leaf (varak) to give it a royal appearance. The most common varieties include kaju katli, a cashew-based barfi, and milk barfi, which has a smooth and creamy texture.

Anarsa: Traditional Maharashtrian Treat

Anarsa is a traditional Maharashtrian Diwali treat made from soaked rice flour and jaggery, flavored with sesame seeds, and fried to golden perfection. This crispy and mildly sweet delicacy is a bit of an acquired taste, but once you try it, it's sure to become a favorite.

Diwali Snacks from Different Regions

Gathiya from Gujarat

In Gujarat, gathiya is a popular savory snack made from gram flour. These fried, thick, crunchy sticks are mildly spiced and make a great addition to the Diwali faral. It's usually served with tea or as part of a festive meal.

Murukku from South India

Murukku is a South Indian snack similar to chakli but with a slightly different flavor. Made from rice flour and black gram dal, this crispy treat is a must-have for any Diwali celebration. Murukku comes in various shapes and sizes, adding fun and flavor to the snack spread.

Diwali is a time for joy, togetherness, and delicious food. Whether it's the crunchy chaklis or the melt-in-your-mouth ladoos, Diwali snacks bring people closer as they share and enjoy the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. Prepare a delightful mix of savory and sweet snacks to make your Diwali celebration truly memorable!