Indian festivals are known for their vibrant celebrations and delicious traditional desserts. Here are some popular festive desserts from different regions of India:
1. Gulab Jamun: Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian sweet that is enjoyed during various festivals. These deep-fried milk dumplings are soaked in a sugar syrup flavoured with rosewater or cardamom. They are soft, syrupy, and utterly indulgent.
2. Jalebi: Jalebi is a crispy and syrupy dessert made by deep-frying a fermented batter in a pretzel-like shape and then soaking it in sugar syrup. It is often enjoyed during festivals like Diwali and Eid.
3. Kaju Katli: Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is a popular sweet made with cashew nuts, sugar, and ghee. It is usually shaped into diamond-shaped pieces and garnished with silver leaf. Kaju Katli is often exchanged as a gift during festivals like Diwali.
4. Modak: Modak is a traditional sweet dumpling that holds great significance during the Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is made with rice flour or wheat flour and stuffed with a sweet filling made of jaggery, coconut, and nuts. Modak is steamed or fried and offered as a special treat to Lord Ganesha.
5. Payasam/Kheer: Payasam or Kheer is a creamy and aromatic rice pudding made with rice, milk, and sugar. It is flavoured with cardamom, saffron, or other ingredients. It is a popular dessert made during various festivals across India.
6. Gujiya: Gujiya is a sweet pastry filled with a mixture of khoya (reduced milk), sugar, and nuts. It is deep-fried and often enjoyed during the festival of Holi and other festive occasions.
7. Sheer Khurma: Sheer Khurma is a rich and creamy vermicelli pudding made with milk, vermicelli, sugar, and nuts. It is a popular dessert served during the Muslim festival of Eid.
These are just a few examples of the delightful festive desserts enjoyed in India. Each region and festival has their own unique sweet treats, reflecting the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine.