Last Updated:October 29, 2024, 22:24 IST

Here’s a list of perfectly festive food and drink pairings that will equally liven up a grand Diwali party or a cozy family dinner

Here’s a list of the best food and drinks pairings

The festive season has kicked off already and there’s a slight crisp in the air as we inch closer towards the country’s most awaited festival – Diwali. The festival of lights is a time to create unforgettable memories with loved ones, and what could be a more perfect setting for these shared moments than a delightful Diwali party? As a way to elevate your celebration to a whole new level, we’ve created a list of perfectly festive food and drink pairings that will equally liven up a grand Diwali party or a cozy family dinner.

1. Tequila and Lamb VindalooLamb Vindaloo, a dish from Goa, is known for its heat and intricate flavors. Tender pieces of lamb are marinated in a blend of exotic spices and then slow-cooked to perfection. The rich, robust flavors of this dish find an unexpected ally in PATRÓN Reposado. The tequila’s subtle sweetness and matured complexity mellow the dish’s intense heat while enhancing its tangy, spicy undertones.
2. Mango Chilli Rum and Kerala style Mango Fish CurryThe curry is a culinary gem from God’s own country and tantalizes the palate with its sour, sweet and spicy notes, creating an exciting blast of flavors. BACARDI Mango Chilli, on the other hand, is a tropical delight that captures the essence of ripe, juicy mangoes, enhanced with a hint of chilli for an unexpected kick. The sweetness of the mango in both the drink and the dish harmonizes perfectly, while the chilli in the BACARDÍ provides a delightful contrast to the tanginess of the curry.
3. Vodka and Hara Bhara KebabsA pairing of classics, the Grey Goose martini paired with savory hara bhara kebabs brings together the world-renowned smoothness of Grey Goose vodka with the lightly spiced flavors of India’s beloved appetizer. The crisp, sharp taste of the martini acts as a perfect balance to the kebabs’ herbaceous and lightly spiced taste. A lemon twist or briny olive garnish to the cocktail will further enhances the vibrant contrast between the two. Blending French sophistication with Indian heartiness, this pairing is sure to be a hit at your next Diwali gathering.
4. Gin and Chicken Malai TikkaThe vibrant botanical notes of the well-loved BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin should be a mainstay at your Diwali party – best experienced in a classic G&T, paired with the beautiful mild and buttery flavors of a Chicken Malai Tikka. The creamy, mildly spiced tikka harmonizes effortlessly with the gin’s smooth, herbal notes, creating a balanced and flavorful combination. Together, they offer an ideal blend of aromatic warmth and rich Indian taste—an impeccable choice to elevate your special occasion.
5. Whiskey and Mutton KormaFor a truly indulgent Diwali pairing, you need to look no further than a rich mutton korma matched with the distinguished upper shelf DEWAR’S 21 Year Old Scotch whisky. The Scotch’s layered notes of dark fruits and subtle honey create a luxurious counterpoint to the qorma’s creamy texture, which offers hints of cashew paste, rose water, saffron, and fragrant spices. The smooth warmth of DEWAR’S enhances each savory bite of the tender, spiced mutton, creating a memorable pairing that will stay on your guests minds for days to come.

Diwali is the favourite festival of many Indians – LED lights strung across every building, homes full of sweets and a crisp air of upcoming winter enveloping all of us in a spirit of joy and celebration. What’s not to love about Diwali? Seize this festive spirit and play host to one of the most fabulous Diwali Card Party your guests will never forget. We are here to help you every step of the way – from decor to dessert and everything in between. 

Party-Theme Outfits

Pick a theme for outfits and make sure all your guests stick to it. It can be as simple as Diwali ethnic outfits to perhaps some colour theme for the card party – red, white and black. You can also wear a shirt with hearts or cards to stand out as the host. 

Festive Decor

A nice decoration is important for a Diwali party. Make sure you are done with the Diwali cleaning in your home before hosting the get-together. Next, place diyas and candles to get that Diwali vibe. You can also make a pyramid of playing cards (make sure to stick all cards in place) and set it at the centre table.
Also Read:Diwali 2024: Date, Puja Timings, Rituals And Best Traditional Sweet Recipes

Cocktail O’ Clock!

No card party is complete without cocktails. Going with the festive vibe, you can serve Bloody Mary, Sangria, Whiskey Sour, Elderflower Martini and Margaritas. Feel free to customise the cocktail menu based on what your guests love the most.

Appetizers And Snacks

Finger food is perfect for a card party. Avoid serving anything complicated such as chicken wings that may require your guest to leave the cards to eat or get their hands dirty. Here are some snack ideas: 

Vegetarian:

Rajma Kebab: These veg kebabs combine kidney beans and aromatic spices, which are deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown colour. 

Potato Cheese Shots: Potatoes are a staple in every Indian kitchen and are always a popular choice. Potato cheese shots make for a delightful snack for people of all ages.

Falafel With Peanut Sauce: This falafel recipe is easy to prepare using common ingredients you probably have on hand. These Middle Eastern patties will be a versatile addition to your party spread.
Also Read:Ahead Of Festive Season, Swiggy Instamart Launches 24×7 Free Delivery In Delhi-NCR

Non-Vegetarian:

Fish Popcorn: The aroma and texture of this recipe will surely captivate the taste buds of your guests. 

Baked Chicken Seekh: Enjoy chicken seekh kebabs that aren’t drenched in oil. With this simple baked chicken seekh recipe, your guests can savour kebabs completely guilt-free.

Keema Samosa: Instead of stuffing samosas with potatoes, fill them with juicy, spiced keema for a meaty, crispy snack.

Dinner

Once everyone is done playing, it will be time for dinner. You can play some nice background music for dinner. Make sure all crockery and cutlery are in place before guests move for the main course. Here are some ideas for the dinner menu:

Butter Chicken: Chicken fans love a good and flavourful Butter Chicken. Choose shredded chicken pieces so guests can enjoy this dish easily.

Rogan Josh: One of the most beloved Kashmiri dishes in Indian cuisine, this red-gravy mutton dish has mutton pieces cooked with hot and spicy Kashmiri spices.

Dal Makhani: Everyone loves dal makhani, a creamy dal full of butter and rich flavours. 

Dum Paneer Kali Mirch: With its spicy and creamy profile, this paneer gravy dish will be loved by all your guests.

Malabar Parotta: Crispy and layered, Malabar parotta will add a delightful South Indian flair to your party menu.

Matar Pulao: Elevate plain rice with peas and spices to create a delicious pulao.

Desserts

Shahi Tukda: Transform fried bread pieces into a memorable dessert by generously coating them with rich layers of milk and nuts.

Phirni: Delight your guests by serving chilled Phirni in earthen cups, the perfect Indian dessert for a Diwali celebration.

Ice Cream: You can never go wrong with ice cream. Classics like vanilla, chocolate and mango are loved by everyone.

Say Goodbye With Gifts

Once done with desserts, do not forget to send your guests home with a special Diwali gift. You can never go wrong with a customised luxury food hamper and perhaps a pack of glossy cards as a token for the successful card party at your place. Happy Diwali!