Diwali
As the festival of lights, Diwali, approaches, households across Maharashtra are gearing up to celebrate with joy, warmth, and, of course, delicious treats, Maharashtrian Faral. One integral aspect of Diwali preparations in Maharashtrian homes is the creation of an assortment of delectable snacks known as "Faral." These traditional treats not only add sweetness to the festivities but also hold cultural significance. In this article, we'll explore some perfect Maharashtrian Faral recipes that will undoubtedly elevate your Diwali celebrations.
Diwali celebrates the homecoming of Lord Ram with his wife Sita after 14 years of exile. On the auspicious occasion, families decorate their homes with beautiful diyas (oil lamps), candles, lights and Rangoli. Another indispensable part of Diwali celebrations is its food.
Puran Poli:
Diwali in Maharashtra is incomplete without Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread filled with a mixture of chana dal (split chickpeas), jaggery, and aromatic spices. The outer layer, made from whole wheat flour, is thinly rolled to perfection. This sweet delicacy symbolizes the essence of Diwali, blending flavors that resonate with the spirit of the festival.
2. Chakli:
Chakli, a spiral-shaped crunchy snack, is a must-have during Diwali. Made from a blend of rice flour, gram flour, and spices like cumin and coriander, Chakli is deep-fried to achieve a golden perfection. Its unique texture and savory taste make it a favorite among both young and old alike.
3. Shankarpali:
Shankarpali, also known as Shakkar Para, is a sweet and crispy snack that adds a delightful crunch to your Diwali Faral platter. Made with a simple dough of all-purpose flour, ghee, and sugar, Shankarpali is cut into small diamond shapes before being deep-fried. Its versatility lies in its ability to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings.
4. Anarse :
Anarse, also known as Anarsa, is a traditional Indian sweet that is often prepared during festivals, especially Diwali. It is popular in the states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. Anarse is made from soaked and ground rice or rice flour, jaggery (or sugar), and ghee (clarified butter). The dough is then shaped into small flat discs and deep-fried until they turn golden brown.
5. Modak:
Modak holds a special place in Maharashtrian households, especially during Diwali. These sweet dumplings are made with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, and khoya (reduced milk solids), encased in a soft rice flour shell. Modak is considered Lord Ganesha's favorite, and making it during Diwali is a cherished tradition.
6. Karanji:
Karanji, also known as Gujiya in some regions, is a crescent-shaped pastry filled with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, and khoya. Deep-fried until golden brown, Karanji is a delightful blend of textures, with a crispy exterior and a sweet, flavorful filling.
7. Besan Ladoo
Besan Ladoo, also known as Besan Ke Laddu, is another popular Indian sweet that is often made during festivals and special occasions. This sweet is particularly famous in North India but is enjoyed throughout the country. Besan Ladoo is made from gram flour (besan), ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and sometimes flavored with cardamom or garnished with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios.
As you prepare to celebrate Diwali in true Maharashtrian style, these perfect Faral recipes are sure to add a touch of tradition and taste to your festivities. Whether you're sharing these treats with family and friends or offering them as part of the Diwali puja, the joy and sweetness of these dishes will undoubtedly make your celebrations even more memorable. Wishing you a joyous and flavor-filled Diwali!
What is Faral in Maharashtra?
Faral is a mix of traditional sweet and savoury snacks including karanji, chakli, pohe chiwda, shakarpara, laddoo and so on. The recipe for which could vary from home to home.
Why Faral is eaten in Diwali?
For those who don't know, Faral is a combination of sweet and savory snacks. These snacks are specially prepared for the festive season of Deepavali and are religiously shared among Family and Friends. From Ladoos to Shankarpalis, each faral recipe has its own shape, size and texture.
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