Snack and dine without the guilt by adopting these easy tweaks to some classic recipes.
Deepavali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, is celebrated with great vibrancy in Singapore. This year, it starts on 29 Oct and lasts for about five days, with the main celebration on 31 Oct. During this period, lighted diyas (oil lamps) sit within intricate rangoli patterns made from colourful rice powder at the entrance of homes, while families enjoy traditional Indian delicacies. Curious about these treats? Watch as our HomeTeamNS President and staff try Deepavali goodies for the first time in this video!
Dishes like murukku, and chicken and mutton curry are beloved festive staples. While these indulgent treats are a highlight of the season, you can still enjoy the same flavours with a healthier twist. Here are some simple tweaks to elevate the nutritional value of your meals without compromising on taste.
Ovens are not just for pastries and bread. Consider baking popular snacks like murukku or samosas instead of frying them.
With more homes now equipped with ovens and air fryers, there are plenty of online recipes that adapt these Deepavali must-haves for healthier preparation. By doing so, you’ll cut down on excess oil and calories, while maintaining the crunch and flavour you love.
Festive menus often highlight rich and aromatic dishes, with proteins like meat playing a key role in certain types of curries.
However, you can balance things out by swapping some meat dishes for plant-based options like lentil curry or vegetable korma. These alternatives add fibre, vitamins and minerals to your meals, ensuring that your feast is both delicious and nutritious.
Deepavali is a wonderful time for family bonding, and what better way to bring everyone together than through fun culinary adventures? Keep the festive spirit alive while discovering new favourites that blend tradition with creativity.
Try experimenting with new ingredients like quinoa or nuts in dishes like phirni for a nutritious twist, or reinvent classics by creating a healthier version of laddoo. You can also stick with timeless favourites like chutneys, which pack bold flavours and reduce the need for extra salt or sugar in your main dishes. PS: Pack your chutneys in pretty jars and gift them to friends and neighbours to add a personal touch to the festivities.
Consider drawing inspiration from other cuisines, too. For instance, sprinkle matcha powder over desserts for an antioxidant boost, or make a healthy naan pizza to control sodium levels — the possibilities are endless!
It’s easy to overindulge during festive seasons. To avoid this, try preparing smaller portions and focusing on variety. Not only does this encourage mindful eating, but also creates a beautiful, abundant-looking spread that caters to diverse tastes.
A bonus: It also caters to fussy eaters or those on certain diets, as they now have plenty to choose from.
As more people embrace different diets, it’s easier than ever to find festive recipes that cater to dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for dairy-free, gluten-free, or low-carb options, there’s something for everyone.
For example, those on a keto diet can discover alternatives like keto crackers and sweets, while vegan options are readily available, aligning with traditional Indian vegetarian options. With some creativity, you can create inclusive dishes that everyone will enjoy.
You can easily swap out certain ingredients for healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavour. Here are some ideas:
HomeTeamNS Khatib:
Celebrate Culture Shiok from 2 to 24 Nov! And don’t miss the Indian Traditions Showcase over 9-10 Nov, featuring lively performances, fun craft workshops and tasty treats for the whole family, such as a dance performance by NUS Naach (a modern Indian dance group), rangoli making, a teh tarik live station, and more!
Culture Shiok is an annual month-long event held at HomeTeamNS Khatib to celebrate Singapore’s rich culture and history. Each week highlights a different culture across Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan cultures.
HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir:
Get into the festive spirit for the Festival of Lights as HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir is giving away 150 handmade scented candles to members from 31 October to 1 November 2024, from 12pm- 6pm. All you need to do is flash your membership e-card to the Customer Experience Ambassadors to redeem a candle.
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