Grilling Goodies: BBQ Cookware for Diwali Parties

While Diwali is traditionally associated with sweets and snacks, you can also add a delicious and unique twist to your Diwali celebration by incorporating barbecue (BBQ) treats. Grilled or barbecued items made in high-quality grill pans are a great addition to the festivities, especially if you're looking for something savory to complement the sweet treats.

BBQ treat ideas for Diwali Parties:

1. Paneer Tikka: Paneer tikka is a vegetarian delight. Marinated cubes of paneer, bell peppers, and onions are threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Serve with mint chutney for a refreshing touch.
2. Vegetable Kebabs: A mix of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, marinated in spices and grilled to create flavorful and healthy BBQ treats.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Marinated or simply brushed with butter and spices, grilled corn on the cob is a flavorful and satisfying BBQ treat.
4. Mushroom Caps Stuffed with Spices: Large mushroom caps can be stuffed with a mixture of herbs, spices, and cheese, then grilled until tender and flavorful.
5. BBQ Veggies: You can grill a variety of vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers and use them to make delicious wraps, sandwiches, or as a side dish.
6. BBQ Pineapple: Grilled pineapple slices with a sprinkle of chili and salt offer a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory BBQ dishes.

When incorporating BBQ treats into your Diwali parties, consider setting up an outdoor barbecue station or using a grill in your backyard. The smoky flavors and sizzling sounds of the grill can add a unique and enjoyable element to your festivities. Don't forget to serve these treats with a selection of chutneys, sauces, and refreshing drinks to complete the experience.

Can You Prepare Grilled Diwali Desserts?

Grilling Diwali sweets is not a common practice, as most traditional Diwali sweets are prepared through methods like frying, boiling, or baking. However, you can create unique variations by incorporating grilling techniques into your sweet preparations. Here are some creative ideas to explore:

1. Grilled Fruit Sweets: Consider grilling fruits like pineapple, mango, or banana slices and then using them in your sweet recipes. Grilled fruit can add a smoky and caramelized flavor to your traditional sweets.
2. Grilled Dessert Kebabs: Create dessert kebabs by grilling cubes of sweet ingredients like gulab jamun, jalebi, or even brownies. Skewer them along with grilled fruits for a delightful twist.
3. Grilled Sweet Filled Parathas: Prepare parathas filled with sweet ingredients like khoya, nuts, and sugar. Grill these parathas for a smoky flavor and serve them with a drizzle of honey.
4. Grilled Sweets with Syrup: Grill sweets like malpua or gulab jamun briefly and then soak them in flavored sugar syrup, which adds a unique grilled touch to your sweets.
5. Grilled Sweet Stuffed Apples or Peaches: Core apples or peaches and stuff them with sweet fillings like nuts, jaggery, and spices. Grill them until they are tender and serve them as a unique sweet dish.

Difference Between Grilling and Frying Diwali Food:

 Grilling Diwali food, as opposed to frying, offers several potential advantages that can make it a healthier and more flavorful cooking method for certain dishes. Here are some reasons why grilling Diwali food can be a better option:

1. Healthier Cooking Method: Grilling typically uses less oil or fat compared to deep frying. This results in lower calorie content and less oil absorption, making grilled dishes a healthier choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
2. Preservation of Nutrients: Grilling helps retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients. Frying can sometimes lead to nutrient loss due to exposure to high temperatures and prolonged cooking times.
3. Enhanced Flavors: Grilling imparts a smoky and charred flavor to the food, which can be a delightful addition to the taste. It can bring out the natural sweetness and depth of flavors in many ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and meats.
4. Less Grease and Oil: Unlike frying, grilling doesn't result in greasy, oil-soaked foods. This can be especially appealing when preparing sweets and snacks, as you can enjoy them without the heaviness often associated with fried items.
5. Versatility: Grilling can be used to prepare a wide range of dishes, from vegetables and fruits to meats and seafood. This versatility allows you to create a diverse Diwali menu that caters to different dietary preferences.
6. Reduction in Carcinogens: When grilling at lower temperatures, it can be a healthier option than frying at high heat, which can lead to the formation of potentially harmful compounds. Grilling over indirect heat can help mitigate this issue.
7. Minimal Cleanup: Grilling often results in less mess compared to deep frying, which can generate oil splatters and require more extensive cleanup.

Can You Grill Samosas?

Grilling samosas is possible, and it can offer a unique twist to this classic Indian snack. Grilled samosas will have a slightly different texture and flavor compared to the traditionally deep-fried version. Here's how you can grill samosas:

Ingredients:

• Samosas (pre-made or homemade)
• Cooking oil or cooking spray (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Samosas: You can use pre-made frozen samosas or make your own samosas. If using frozen samosas, follow the package instructions for thawing.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush each side of the samosas with cooking oil or use a cooking spray. This will help achieve a crispy and golden exterior.
4. Grill the Samosas: Place the samosas directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they have grill marks and are heated through. The exact time may vary depending on your grill's heat, so keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Serve: Once the samosas are cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve them while they're still warm with your favorite chutneys or sauces.

Grilling samosas can offer a smoky and slightly charred flavor to the pastry, which can be a unique and enjoyable experience. It also reduces the amount of oil used compared to deep-frying, making it a somewhat healthier option. However, keep in mind that grilled samosas may not be as crispy as the deep-fried version, and the texture will be slightly different. It's a fun and tasty alternative, especially if you enjoy the flavor of grilled foods.

Best Cookware for Grilling Food For Diwali Parties:

When it comes to grilling Diwali food for Diwali parties, you'll want the right cookware to ensure the best results. Grill pans are a great alternative for those who don't have access to an outdoor grill or simply prefer indoor grilling. These pans have ridges that mimic grill marks and can be used on a stovetop. Grilling can add a unique and delicious element to your Diwali feast, enhancing the flavors and adding a festive touch to your celebration. Therefore, make sure to choose cookware that suits your specific grilling needs and the types of Diwali dishes you plan to prepare. Find the best grill pans for grilling Diwali food here.