Deepavali is approaching and the lanes will be lit! Festivals are always associated with food and people love to indulge in some extra calories!
This is the time for you to attract customers by having some Deepavali special dishes on your restaurant menu. This can be a great opportunity to retain them too.
In this blog, you will learn about why Deepavali is celebrated in Malaysia and what people eat during that time. You will also learn about all the famous dishes that you should keep on your menu. Read More to find out!
What is Deepavali and why is it Celebrated in Malaysia?
The majority of the Hindu Population in Malaysia are Tamilians and Deepavali is celebrated there in the South Indian Style. It is celebrated because according to Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna defeated Narakasura. The Tamil Population celebrates Deepavali on Naraka Chaturdashi which is a day before Deepavali Amavasya.
Since it would be a national holiday, people would like to go out and eat with their friends and family. You should have some Deepavali Appropriate dishes on your menu to satiate their taste buds.
Deepavali Dishes to Add to Your Menu
Here are five must-have dishes you should consider adding to your restaurant’s menu this Deepavali. These dishes are easy to prepare and guaranteed to delight your customers.
1. Murukku
Murukku, also known as Chakli, is a crispy, spiral-shaped snack that’s incredibly popular during Deepavali. Made from rice flour and a blend of spices, Murukku is deep-fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch. What makes it a great addition to your menu? It’s an easy snack that can be prepared in advance, so you won’t have to rush on the day of the festival. In fact, Murukku has a long shelf life—up to three to four months—which makes it a perfect item to stock up on during the Deepavali season.
Given its popularity, offering Murukku as a side snack or as part of a takeaway bundle could be a hit with customers. You can market it as a Deepavali favorite, drawing people who are eager to celebrate with traditional treats.
2. Mutton Curry
Mutton curry is a dish that can give your customers a flavorful kick. This rich and spicy curry is often made with goat meat, which is slow-cooked in a gravy of onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy restaurant kitchens.
Mutton curry pairs wonderfully with rice, dosai, or naan, making it a versatile dish for your Deepavali menu. It’s hearty, filling, and full of flavor—exactly the kind of dish that customers will remember. Since many people prefer indulging in rich, festive meals during Deepavali, this is a dish that can satisfy those cravings.
3. Veg Biryani
No Deepavali celebration is complete without a flavorful veg biryani. This rice dish is packed with spices, saffron, dry fruits, and mixed vegetables, making it a wholesome and aromatic main course. Whether your customers are vegetarian or not, veg biryani is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by everyone.
As a restaurant owner, you could offer veg biryani as a standalone dish or as part of a Deepavali set meal. The dish is both visually appealing and delicious, making it an excellent choice for those looking to celebrate the festival with a rich, traditional meal.
4. Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian dessert that’s almost always present during Deepavali. These soft, round milk-based sweets are soaked in sugar syrup and flavored with rose water or cardamom. Though they can take some time to prepare, the result is well worth it. Gulab Jamun’s sweetness is irresistible and a perfect way to end a festive meal.
Your restaurant can offer Gulab Jamun as part of a dessert menu or include it in a special Deepavali meal package. Customers looking to indulge their sweet tooth during the holiday will appreciate having this traditional treat available.
5. Samosa
Samosas are a must-have for Deepavali. These crispy, fried pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes are a snack that appeals to both adults and children. They are easy to eat, making them perfect for sharing or as part of a takeaway meal. Samosas are also incredibly versatile—you can offer them with different fillings like meat, cheese, or vegetables to cater to a variety of tastes.
Adding samosas to your Deepavali menu is a smart move, especially since they’re already a popular snack in Malaysia. You can serve them as appetizers or include them in a snack platter alongside Murukku for a more festive offering.
What Do People Eat in Malaysia for Deepavali?
The food served during Deepavali in Malaysia often reflects both Indian and Malaysian culinary influences. Popular Deepavali snacks in Malaysia include Murukku, vadai, and samosas, while main courses might feature mutton curry, biryani, and fish sambal. Desserts like Gulab Jamun and laddoos are also common during the festival.
This mix of flavors and traditions makes Deepavali food in Malaysia incredibly diverse and flavorful. As a restaurant owner, you can offer a fusion of both traditional Indian dishes and Malaysian favorites to cater to local tastes.
How Can You Leverage Deepavali to Attract Customers?
Offering a special Deepavali menu can do wonders for your restaurant during the festive season. Many people prefer eating out or ordering in to celebrate with family and friends, and having a menu that reflects traditional Deepavali dishes will draw attention.
Additionally, online food orders tend to spike by 35% during major festivals like Deepavali. By offering Deepavali-themed meal bundles for delivery or pickup, you can capture this growing market and boost your sales. You could also consider running promotions, such as discounted meal packages or special holiday treats, to entice more customers.
Now that you’re equipped with some signature Deepavali dishes, it’s time to start planning your festive menu. From crispy Murukku to rich mutton curry and sweet Gulab Jamun, these dishes will delight your customers and create a memorable dining experience. By adding these traditional Deepavali dishes to your menu, you can attract a diverse crowd and boost your sales during this festive season.
So, what are you waiting for? Start preparing your Deepavali menu and get ready to serve some of the best Deepavali food in Malaysia!
