On Thursday the 24th October, InterContinental London Park Lane hosted a spectacular one-night-only Diwali dinner, celebrating life, love and the Hindu festival of light. Executive Chef Lalit Kumar partnered with MasterChef: The Professionals semi-finalist, Arbinder Singh Dugal, to craft an authentic Indian five-course tasting dinner in luxurious surroundings. Fusing traditional Indian spices and flavours with modern culinary techniques, the dynamic pair crafted elevated festival dishes for the lucky attendees to feast on.
As a symbol of love, abundance, prosperity, and the spirit of giving, food plays a key part in Diwali celebrations. So, to uncover some authentic Diwali dishes and traditions, as well as to get an insight into the delicacies celebrated throughout the festival, we caught up with Chef Lalit for a chat.
What do the celebrations look like on the days in the run up/post the 31st?
Diwali celebrations span five days, each with its unique significance. The first day, Dhanteras, is about prosperity, often celebrated by buying something valuable, traditionally gold or silver. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali, focuses on cleansing and preparation, symbolizing the removal of negativity. Diwali itself is the third day, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, with homes beautifully lit by diyas and rangolis. The fourth day, Govardhan Puja, emphasizes the bond between family members, while the fifth day, Bhai Dooj, celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. Each day holds a warm and festive spirit, drawing family and friends together.
How does a typical day of celebrating Diwali start?
A typical Diwali day begins early, often with a cleansing ritual. This is followed by prayers and decorating the home with diyas and flowers. Breakfast tends to be a light, traditional meal, allowing room for the many sweets and treats that will be enjoyed later. Families spend the day together, often visiting friends and relatives, exchanging sweets, and preparing for the evening’s festivities.
Preparing and sharing delicious sweets and snacks has long been a part of this festival’s tradition. Which mithai in particular that evoke nostalgia for you?
Gulab Jamun and Kaju Katli hold a special place for me. Growing up, these sweets were always prepared in abundance, and the smell of fresh cardamom, ghee, and syrup instantly brings back memories of family gatherings. The joy of sharing these sweets with loved ones was as cherished as the taste itself.
What particular recipes do you enjoy making?
One of my favourite recipes to make during Diwali is Besan Ladoo. They’re simple yet require precision, and the aroma of roasted gram flour is incredibly inviting. Another dish I enjoy making is Paneer Tikka, a savoury delight that pairs perfectly with the richness of the sweets we enjoy during Diwali.
What are some of your favourite dishes to enjoy during the festival?
During Diwali, I enjoy a variety of dishes, but some favourites include Chole Bhature, Aloo Tikki, and Shahi Paneer. These dishes are flavourful, comforting, and ideal for a festive meal. Of course, no Diwali feast is complete without sweets, so Ras Malai and Jalebi are also must-haves.
Some recipes, like Rasgulla, can be quite complex to make. What are some simple, tasty recipes that you would recommend for beginners?
For beginners, I’d recommend trying Coconut Ladoo or Besan Ladoo. These sweets are fairly straightforward but deliver on flavour and presentation. For a savoury option, Aloo Tikki is a great choice – it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
For anyone who isn’t celebrating Diwali at home, is there any particular Indian restaurant you would recommend enjoying the flavours and dishes of the festival?
If you’re looking to celebrate Diwali in London, Colaba Indian Dining at West Hempstead offers a festive dining experience with a curated Diwali menu. It’s an opportunity to enjoy authentic Indian flavours and classic festival dishes prepared with care and tradition.
Finally, what is your favourite cocktail to enjoy for the festival?
For Diwali, I enjoy a refreshing Mango Mojito. It’s a vibrant cocktail that combines the tropical sweetness of mango with a hint of mint, perfectly balancing the richness of the festival’s food. Alternatively, a Spiced Old Fashioned with hints of cardamom and cinnamon adds warmth and complements the flavours of Diwali beautifully.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our Diwali recipes to create your own de-light-ful feast.
All images courtesy of Lalit Kumar on behalf of Diwali Tasting Menu with Celebrity Chef Arbinder Singh.
