Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a joyous and luminous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in the southern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Alongside the lighting of lamps, colorful rangoli designs, and vibrant decorations, the celebration of Diwali is incomplete without a delightful array of traditional recipes. Here are some popular Diwali recipes from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana:
1. Murukku: Murukku is a crunchy and savory snack made from rice flour and urad dal (black gram). The dough is flavored with spices like cumin seeds and asafoetida, which lend a unique taste to these spiral-shaped snacks. Murukku is deep-fried to a golden brown and is a favorite among people of all ages during Diwali.
2. Badam Katli: Badam katli is a sweet confection made from finely ground almonds, sugar, and a hint of cardamom. This sweet treat is shaped into diamond-shaped pieces and is a popular Diwali sweet in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
3. Jangri: Jangri is a sweet and syrupy dessert made from urad dal and rice flour. The batter is piped into spiral shapes and deep-fried until golden. These fried spirals are then soaked in sugar syrup, giving them a delightful sweetness and vibrant orange color.
4. Mysore Pak: Mysore Pak is a rich and buttery sweet made from chickpea flour, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar. It has a melt-in-your-mouth texture and is often garnished with chopped nuts. Mysore Pak is a beloved Diwali dessert.
5. Ariselu: Ariselu are sweet pancakes made from rice flour and jaggery. They are deep-fried until golden brown and have a unique, slightly sticky texture. These delicious treats are a Diwali staple in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
6. Coconut Laddu: Coconut laddu is a simple and flavorful sweet made from grated coconut, sugar, and a hint of cardamom. These round balls are easy to prepare and are perfect for Diwali celebrations.
7. Poha Chivda: Poha chivda is also known as “Atukula chivada” in Telugu, is a crunchy and savory snack made from flattened rice, peanuts, and a mix of spices. It’s a quick and easy snack to prepare and is often enjoyed with a cup of chai during Diwali festivities.
8. Boorelu (Puran Poli): Boorelu are sweet dumplings made from a filling of chana dal (split chickpeas), jaggery, and grated coconut, encased in a dough made from rice flour. These sweet dumplings are deep-fried and are a delightful addition to the Diwali menu.
9. Masala Puri: Masala puri is a spicy and crunchy snack made from puris (deep-fried bread) that are seasoned with a spicy masala mixture. It’s a flavorful and addictive snack enjoyed during Diwali celebrations.
Diwali in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and savor these delectable homemade treats. These recipes not only add flavor to the festivities but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region. Whether sweet or savory, these dishes are prepared with love and care to make Diwali a truly special and memorable occasion.
