When it comes to Diwali, food isn't just a part of the celebration — it's the heart of it. This festival of lights just wouldn't be complete without a spread of flavours that bring everyone together, from savoury bites to indulgent desserts. If you're setting up for a Diwali night to remember, your menu is key, but let's be real — the endless choices can make planning a bit overwhelming. Don't sweat it! We've pulled together 15 tried-and-true recipes that'll make your Diwali spread the highlight of the weekend. Each dish is designed to bring that perfect mix of festive flavour and comfort to your table, setting the vibe for a celebration your guests won't forget.
1. Cheese Nachos
Crispy tortilla chips generously topped with melted cheese and drizzled with spicy salsa. Serve with a side of zesty mint chutney for an Indian twist on this classic snack that's perfect for sharing! Click here for the recipe.
2. Dahi Papdi Pops
Prepare these quick and easy dahi papdi pops for a fantastic party appetizer. You'll need papdi, curd, pomegranate, cashews, and ketchup. Click here for the recipe.
3. Tandoori Chaat
Bring the flavours of India to your table with this delicious tandoori chaat recipe. The spicy and tangy flavours blend beautifully to add excitement to your party. Click here for the recipe.
4. Salsa And Caramel Bread Popcorn
Feeling adventurous with flavours? Spice up your snack game by pairing zesty salsa with crunchy bread popcorn for a Mexican-Indian twist! Click here for the recipe.
5. Shami Kebab
Straight from the royal kitchens of the Mughal era, shami kebabs are made with super finely minced meat that's practically melt-in-your-mouth. This snack is all about flavour overload with minced mutton and a blend of spices like red chilli, green chilli, and black peppercorn, giving it that extra kick. Perfect for anyone craving a bite of something rich, spicy, and absolutely satisfying! Click here for the recipe.
6. Achari Paneer Tikka
Paneer is a Diwali classic, no questions asked. But this year, why not amp up the flavour game? Give it a tangy twist by adding some spicy, zesty pickles to the mix. It's that extra punch of flavour your Diwali spread needs! Click here for the recipe.
7. Gobi Manchurian
Manchurian lovers will embrace this dish made of cauliflower. Take two eggs, flour, onions, capsicums and spices to make the Manchurian balls and dip them in a spicy gravy. Click here for the recipe.
8. Pashtooni Zarda Pulao
Pulao is the centrepiece of any menu during an Indian festival. This easy recipe requires rice, spices, khoya, saffron, dry fruits and rosewater for a subtle flavour. Click here for the recipe.
9. Hyderabadi Biryani
Straight from the bustling streets of Hyderabad, this biryani brings those irresistible, real-deal flavours straight to your kitchen. Known as one of the most loved biryani recipes out there, this dish is all set to steal the spotlight. Think layers of half-cooked rice, crispy fried onions, fresh mint, and tender, flavorful meat - all slow-cooked to perfection in dum style. Ready to make it? Grab the full recipe here!
10. Amritsari Kulcha
Kulcha is a popular Indian bread that is relished a lot during parties. Make a yummy filling with onions, coriander sprigs, potatoes, pomegranate seeds, lemon juice and spices. Click here for the recipe.
11. Spiced Rum Recipe
Spiced rum is all about mixing rich, aged rum with a kick of exotic spices like cinnamon and vanilla for a flavour explosion. Perfect for sipping neat or shaking up cocktails, it's a delicious way to elevate your drink game! Want to make your own? Check out the recipe here.
12. Cucumber Mint Cooler
Get the party started with this Cucumber Mint Cooler! This mocktail is all about refreshing vibes, bursting with zesty lemon and cool mint flavours that'll have your guests feeling rejuvenated. Perfect for any celebration, it's delicious, easy to whip up, and might just become the go-to drink for all your get-togethers. Cheers to good times and even better sips! Click here for the recipe.
13. Phirni
Don't disappoint the guests who have a sweet tooth. Phirni is the perfect Indian dessert for a Diwali party. Click here for the recipe.
Photo: iStock
14. Shahi Tukda
Turn fried pieces of bread into an unforgettable dessert by slathering them with thick layers of milk and nuts. Click here for the recipe.
15. Rasmalai
Rasmalai, with its milk base and sugary chenna cakes, is an evergreen recipe to add sweetness to festive parties. Take it at home and serve it chilled. Click here for the recipe.
Photo: iStock