Sweetmeats and savoury treats to celebrate Karthigai Deepam

Karthigai Deepam is an auspicious, revered celebration for Hindus originating from states located in southern India such as Sri Lanka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerela, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka and Sri Lanka.

Celebrated annually, Karthigai Deepam is reportedly one of the most important festivities for Tamilians around the globe. Although it holds similarities to Diwali, such as its reference to being called the Festival of Lights, the origin of the occasion differs.

According to reports from the Tamil Nadu Government, Karthigai Deepam is an ode to an age-old tale of a fight that took place between deities Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu as they went head-to-head in a disagreement of superiority. Intervening in this fight, Lord Shiva (another revered deity) showcased his power and might with fire, proving that light overpowers all. Fire forms a big part of the day and lamps are lit to mark the occasion.

The agenda for the day includes this lighting of lamps, which is known as viḷakku, the laying down of rangoli (a decorative floor design), cleaning the house to make way for light and positivity, prayers, and, of course, food. Sweetmeats and savoury treats are a huge part of Indian culture and Karthigai Deepam is no different.

Here is a list of sweetmeats and savoury treats to prepare this Karthigai Deepam.

Burfee

Who knew that something so sweet and delicious could be created from a few simple ingredients? The sweetness of burfee can be adjusted and it is often decorated with various toppings such as almonds and pistachios.

Poli

A savoury and sweet treat combined is one way to describe poli. It is a crispy phyllo pastry filled with a sweet coconut filling.

Vegetable samoosas

If there was an iconic Indian-rooted savoury bite it would have to be samoosas. This easy recipe will ensure you create the perfect bite.

Gulab jamun

These sweet cake-like bites are a favourite among the Indian community and, whether you cover it in syrup, roll it like a ball or prefer it cone-shaped (as pictured below), these are a must.

Chana magaj

With a biscuit-like consistency, chana magaj has a buttery and sweet yet spice-infused taste. Prepared using chickpea flour, this sweetmeat is a contrast with burfee. Although they might appear the same in size and texture, chana magaj has a depth of flavour that can be attributed to cardamom.