Deepavali or Diwali, also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, is celebrated all across the world.

Despite the gloom of the Covid-19 pandemic drastically changing the way the festival is celebrated this year, it is still possible for family and friends to gather in small groups and enjoy each other’s company over good food and some traditional delicacies.

Like any other festival, Deepavali is the perfect time to indulge in all your favourite comfort foods minus the guilt trip.

Here’s a list of Indian delicacies most enjoyed during Deepavali.

1. Muruku

Muruku is a popular crispy deep-fried snack made from a combination of rice flour and urad flour. It is best enjoyed with a cup of hot chai – or coffee – whichever takes your fancy.

The crumbly texture of muruku is undeniably one of the best treats out there. And like most things highly addictive, one is seldom enough.

2. Samosa

Samosa is a traditional Northern Indian snack. It is a deep-fried, triangular-shaped patty encased with a thin layer of pastry and stuffed with onion, potatoes, herbs and spices. Some varieties also contain mince chicken for an extra flavour boost.

With each bite, you get a hint of creaminess from the potatoes and a bit of peppery flavour of the herbs and spices. The crispy outer layer and soft inside make for a wonderfully-textured snack.

3. Adhirasam

Adhirasam is a delightful Deevapali sweet treat. This mouth-watering deep-fried snack is made of freshly ground rice flour and jaggery with a dash of spices. The crispy outside and spongy inside will leave you wanting for more.

4. Nei Urandhai

Nei Urandhai, also known as ghee balls, is a must-have sweet treat during Deepavali. It is made of rice flour and Moong dhal and is rich in ghee.

A simple but delicious ghee ball delicately melts in your mouth with every bite you take – as the richness of the ghee immediately greets your taste buds.

5. Ladoo

Ladoo is the star on many auspicious occasions like weddings, prayers and festivals. It comes in a few different varieties such as atta ladoo, rawa ladoo, sesame ladoo and much more.

However, flour, sugar and lots of ghee are all that you need to make the perfect ladoo.

6. Achu Muruku

Achu muruku is a sweet version of muruku, instantly recognisable by the rose-shaped mould it is made with.

Containing coconut milk, this muruku is crispy, light and impossibly hard to resist, making it truly addictive.