UAE Family Recipes: Grandpa’s Diwali Treats Revealed!
- by WONDERMOM
- Nov. 11, 2023
Diwali, the festival of lights, brings with it a cascade of emotions, memories, and above all, delicious food. But what if I told you that nestled deep within the culinary delights of many UAE family recipes are the hidden gems passed down from grandfathers? These are not just recipes, but a testament to years of expertise, love, and family traditions.
I’ve always been a firm believer in the magic of grandparents. Their stories, life lessons, and, of course, their secret recipes. While Diwali is celebrated grandly across the world, it holds a special place in the hearts of UAE residents, with the aroma of traditional food wafting through the air, and families coming together in joyous celebrations.
But let’s dish out the delightful secrets, shall we? As children, the highlight for many of us was sneaking into the kitchen while our grandfathers lovingly prepared those special Diwali treats. Ah, the nostalgia! If you hail from a traditional UAE family, recipes from your grandfather are nothing less than heirlooms.
First up, Boondi Laddoos. These golden drops of sweetness are synonymous with Diwali. Remember how grandpa would insist that the batter’s consistency is key and that the syrup must be of “one-string” consistency? His meticulous precision ensured that every laddoo was a perfect symphony of sweetness and texture.
And then there’s the Shahi Tukda. A royal treat, as the name suggests. Layers of bread, dipped in creamy milk, sprinkled with dry fruits, and drenched in syrup. The UAE family recipes for this dessert can differ slightly, but grandpa’s secret? A hint of saffron for that rich aroma and regal flavour.
As we delve deeper into the culinary treasure trove, we find the Kesar Peda. A delightful milky dessert, infused with the goodness of saffron. “Always use your palms to shape them,” grandpa would advise. His warm hands not only moulded the pedas but also our childhood memories.
But Diwali isn’t just about sweets. The savoury treats are just as integral. Remember the Nimki? Those crispy, diamond-shaped savouries that we’d munch on all day? Dipped in tea or paired with pickles, they were the perfect crunchy accompaniment. Grandpa’s twist to the traditional UAE family recipes? A sprinkle of carom seeds to aid digestion.
And who could forget the Samose? Those triangle pockets of joy, filled with spiced potatoes and peas. The crispy exterior and the soft, warm filling – every bite was a celebration in itself. “Always fry on a low flame,” grandpa would say, ensuring they were perfectly golden.
It’s not just about the food, but the legacy, love, and tradition that’s been passed down. The charm of UAE family recipes lies not just in the ingredients, but in the stories they hold, the hands that crafted them, and the memories they evoke.