Diwali 2023: Best Restaurant Deals And Food Hampers For Diwali Across India

The festival of Diwali always brings a wave of excitement along with it. It's that time of the year when we wish to pamper ourselves to the fullest. Whether it's indulging in delicious mithai and traditional dishes, or greeting our loved ones with gifts, it's the perfect time to do all these things. And guess what? Your favourite restaurants are trying to make sure you get into the festive mood with all the goodness possible. From exciting Diwali-special menus to festive food hampers, these deals will certainly liven up your festivities. In this article, we have curated a list of the best Diwali deals for you across India. Check them out below:
Also Read: When Is Diwali 2023? Date, Puja Timings And Delicious Foods To Celebrate The Festival

Here Are The Best Restaurants For Diwali Offers Across India:

1. Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi

With the festival of light on the horizon, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi extends a gracious invitation to all guests, welcoming them to embrace the essence of Diwali in a luxurious manner with their carefully curated hampers. These hampers exude opulence and epitomise the spirit of festivity, promising an unparalleled experience. They are quite meticulously designed and make the perfect gifts for your loved ones. They are also offering special gift vouchers.

• Where: Shangri-La Eros, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi
• Cost: INR 1600 onwards

2. Andaz Delhi

This season, Andaz Delhi brings you specially curated gift boxes by World of Hyatt for your loved ones. All of the hampers have been put together using homegrown products sourced locally to celebrate the vibrant festive season. Customers can choose from a variety of hampers, including the elegant treat box, classic box, thoughtful celebration box, allure assorted box, and more. These boxes are available for purchase until November 12.

• Where: Andaz, Atrocity, New Delhi
• Cost: INR 950 onwards

3. The Leela Ambience, Gurugram

Make your celebrations memorable with the wide range of luxurious gourmet hampers offered by The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences. A treasure trove of deliciousness, this collection features traditional mithai boxes, homemade chocolate boxes, premium La Vieja Fábrica jam, macaroons, phool incense dhoop cones, scented candles, festive diyas, glorious idols of Lord Ganesha, and much more. The meticulously crafted hampers spell luxury and excellence with intricately designed signature packaging.

• Where: The Leela Ambience, Gurugram
• Cost: INR 1500 onwards

4. Courtyard By Marriott Aravali Resort

Experience the enchantment of Diwali like never before at Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort. The Diwali hampers at the resort are a captivating blend of tradition and luxury, where each element narrates a story of craftsmanship and indulgence. From the mindful fusion of milk and cardamom in the 'Gulab Peda' to the visually stunning 'Cokhoya', these hampers promise to be a sensory delight. These assortments are not mere gifts; they are an invitation to savour the essence of Diwali in a truly opulent way.

• Where: Courtyard By Marriott Aravali Resort, Haryana
• Cost: INR 1000 onwards

5. The Lodhi, New Delhi

The Lodhi, New Delhi, invites guests to immerse themselves in the festive fervour with unmatched grandeur. The hotel has curated an assortment of hampers that transcend conventional gifting. Guests can make a distinctive statement with a selection that epitomises the art of thoughtful gifting, fusing tradition, lavishness, and unforgettable moments. Encapsulating the spirit of Diwali, the hampers feature a medley of rich Indian flavours, sweet and savoury gourmet delicacies, treasures like festive diyas and candles, and graceful Ganesha idols.

• Where: The Lodhi, New Delhi
• Cost:  INR 5000 onwards

6. Khoya Mithai

Khoya Mithai has introduced an assortment of traditional gourmet treats matched with a sophisticated flair for the festival of Diwali. Made using age-old recipes tweaked to suit the modern palate, this collection strikes a perfect balance between classic flavour and contemporary style. It includes mouth-watering mithais such as the gold pista katli, kesar box, khoya's snack box, and khoya's round dry fruit box, among others. These mithais will certainly brighten up your festive celebrations.

• Where: Khoya Mithai, The Chanakya, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
• Cost: INR 1800 onwards

7. BeeYoung

Enjoy your Diwali celebrations with BeeYoung's Beer, India's first strong craft beer. It offers a crisp initial taste, followed by a perfect malty flavour and a hint of ripe fruitiness on the mid-palate. Its invigorating flavours and rich taste make each sip eventful and perfect for all social settings, especially when enjoyed in the company of your loved ones. The beers exhibit graceful flavours of carefully selected international malt, complemented by the inclusion of premium Basmati rice for a smooth finish on the palate.

• Where: Available in Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand

8. The Laddoo Wala

The Laddoo Wala has introduced a special mithai menu for the festival of Diwali. Every piece of mithai is made to order, hand-rolled, and carefully packed to create a box that embodies the true essence of the festival of lights. In addition to a selection of signature laddoos (besan, pista, rose, and coconut), their mithai boxes also include other unique mithais of India, such as chana barfi, dates and nuts barfi, and kaju crunch barfi. These are paired with savoury delights that complete the perfect Diwali gift box.

• Where: The Laddoo Wala
• Cost: INR 1550 onwards

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7 Genius Ways to Make Your Plain White Rice Tasty and Healthy

Rice is a staple of Indian cuisine, gracing the tables of households across the country on a daily basis. While steamed rice is a common accompaniment, frequently paired with dal, rajma, or chickpeas, it's easy to grow weary of the same plain, boiled rice. If you're someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and believes in culinary innovation, you can transform your ordinary rice into something extraordinary. With various techniques, seasonings, liquids, and spices, you can create a new and delightful version of steamed rice. We've compiled some fantastic kitchen hacks to help you infuse your plain rice with flavour and elevate its nutritional value.

Also Read: Bored of Dal Makhani? Try This Amazing Dal Mughlai Recipe!

7 Ideas To Elevate The Flavour Of Your Rice:

1. Use Vegetable Stock:

Don't discard vegetable scraps or peels used to make vegetable stock. Instead, use this flavourful stock to cook your rice. This not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional content.

2. Add Chicken:

If you have leftover rice from the previous night, you can elevate it by adding chicken. Simply stir-fry boneless chicken pieces with spices and mix them with steamed rice to create a delicious and protein-rich meal in minutes.

3. Use Lemon Juice:

For those who prefer their steamed rice plain, you can make it more exciting by adding a touch of lemon juice. Sprinkle your preferred spices, add lemon juice, and voilà – a tasty rice bowl is ready. Lemon not only adds a tangy zing but also prevents the rice from sticking to the pan during cooking.

4. Cook With Coconut Milk:

Don't limit yourself to chicken or vegetable broth when making rice. Consider using coconut milk for a creamy and exotic twist. Coconut milk, a staple in many traditional dishes, will infuse your rice with richness and a delightful taste.

5. Flavour With Curry Leaves:

These aromatic leaves often feature in various dishes to add flavour. You can bring the same aroma and taste to your plain rice. Prepare a tempering with mustard seeds, green chillies, and curry leaves, and combine it with the rice to transform its flavour completely.

6. Add Vegetables:

Whether you're preparing fresh rice or reviving leftovers, consider incorporating green peas, capsicum, and carrots. Not only will this introduce colour and flavour to your rice, but it will also enhance its nutritional profile.

7. Infuse The Flavour Of Garlic:

Garlic, a culinary gem in Indian kitchens, is renowned for elevating the taste of dishes. It's not only flavorful but also beneficial for immunity. Combine spices and chopped garlic in oil or butter, and mix with steamed rice to create delicious garlic-infused rice.

Also Read: Achaari Lachha Paratha: A Spicy Twist On A Beloved Classic - Try It Now

With these creative ideas, the next time you're in the mood for simple steamed rice, you can give it a delightful twist and enjoy a tastier and healthier meal.

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Unseen Connection Between Stress And Eating Habits - And Ways To Break It

Stress is an inherent part of life in the 21st century. Our lifestyles, work, environment, and constant competition all contribute to the ever-present issue of stress. Despite being a state of mind, stress exerts a profound physiological influence. When stress strikes, our body responds by releasing hormones that augment blood flow to swiftly deliver oxygen to our cells. As a result, our heart rate escalates, and our mental alertness surges. This cascade of events is initiated when the hypothalamus in our brain signals the adrenal glands to release adrenaline hormones. If the stress is acute, such as an argument, things usually return to normal. However, when stress becomes episodic, with recurring short bursts, the adrenaline hormone persistently increases heart rate and blood pressure to support the heightened energy requirements. In the case of chronic stress, the adrenal glands release cortisol, which leads to an increase in blood glucose levels to meet the brain's elevated energy demands. Cortisol also hinders digestion, reproduction, and growth processes, shifting the focus towards the brain.

Also Read: Oranges Can Be Stress Relievers: Here's How To Add Them To Your Diet

Chronic stress perpetuates the physiological response through the nervous system, leading to inflammation and cell damage. Additionally, cortisol has an impact on the sleep cycle and alters the body's utilization of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Impact Of Stress Eating:

Food Choices:

Chronic stress raises the metabolic demands of our bodies, often leading to the consumption of nutrient-poor, calorie-dense, and highly processed foods. The cravings for sweet foods tend to increase as well.

Metabolism Slowdown:

Stress can slow down metabolism, resulting in weight gain. A study published in the Journal of Bio Psychiatry found that stressed women burned 100 calories less than others. It was also observed that consuming a high-fat meal within 24 hours of stress further slowed the body's metabolism, potentially causing women to gain up to 11 pounds over a year.

Skipping Meals:

Stress can lead to skipping meals due to low energy levels and mental turmoil, often replaced with quick, high-fat, high-salt snacks, which can harm health. Cortisol is known to cause food cravings for high-sugar and high-fat foods.

Fat Deposition:

Cortisol is associated with increased fat deposition around the belly area, a strong risk factor for insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. It suppresses the satiety hormone leptin and increases the hunger hormone ghrelin.

While metabolic factors play a role in stress eating, you can make choices to mitigate the damage:

• Choose mindful eating practices that encourage thorough chewing, slow eating, engagement with the nutritional value of your meals, timely eating, regular exercise, and meditation. A structured lifestyle can help combat stress.
• Opt for nutritious foods over processed ones to prevent making poor choices when hunger strikes.
• Exercise daily as it serves as a great stress reliever, and ensures you get adequate sleep.

Some immediate remedies to combat stress eating include:

• Avoid hastily succumbing to cravings after a stressful event. Pause, have a glass of water, and calm down before succumbing to emotional eating triggers.
• Keep healthy snacks readily available. Fruits, when combined with nuts, can provide prolonged satiety.
• If you're craving something sweet, keep dark chocolate (at least 90% cocoa) on hand and indulge in a small piece.
• Portion control is key to maintaining healthy eating habits.

Here are some foods known for relieving stress:

Prioritize natural, fresh foods over processed, ready-to-cook or ready-to-eat meals.

• Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, plant proteins, nuts, and seeds into your diet, as they contain potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the effects of stress.
• Foods rich in Vitamin B, such as eggs, chicken, lean meat, and whole grains, can help regulate cortisol levels.
• Consume omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, olive oil, and fatty fish, to reduce inflammation.
• For improved sleep and stress relief, consider chamomile tea and ashwagandha tea, both of which can soothe nerves and promote better sleep.

Also Read: Do You Tend To Stress Eat? Nutritionist Shares 3 Simple Foods That May Help

In conclusion, it's essential to learn how to manage stress and not let it control us, as this is the key to leading a healthy and happy life.

Disclaimer:

The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

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Luchi To Mishti Doi, Explore The Essence of Bengal In Delhi With These 5 Authentic Bengali Restaurants

Delhi is a melting pot of diverse cultures and communities, and unquestionably, the presence of Bengalis adds to its vibrant and lively character. Finding authentic Bengali food outside Bengal can be quite a challenge, especially when it comes to finding a 'Maccher cutlet' that lives up to the flavours of back home. We know that nothing can quite satisfy your cravings for Luchi and Cholar Dal on a lazy Sunday afternoon. That's precisely why we have meticulously handpicked the finest Bengali restaurants in the capital city for you!
Also Read: 7 Bengali Curries That Have Our Heart (Recipes Inside)

Here are 5 handpicked restaurants to savour Bengali cuisine in Delhi:

1. Oh Calcutta!

Oh Calcutta! is a haven for every Bengali residing in Delhi. Stepping into Oh Calcutta! feels like a journey to the heart of Bengal. The aroma of Hilsa fish and coconut prawns will evoke memories of your mother's kitchen. They offer both buffet and a la carte dining options. Their Mochar Chop, Chhana Aam Kashundi Paturi, and Hing Aloor offer a tantalizing burst of flavours. And what's Bengali cuisine without its mouthwatering desserts? Their Mishti Doi and Nolen Gurer Ice Cream (Jaggery ice cream) are truly divine! From cutlets to paturi to biryani, Oh Calcutta! is a one-stop solution to satisfy every Bengali's cravings.
Where: Plot 4, Local Shopping Centre Masjid Moth, Greater Kailash II, New Delhi, Delhi 110048

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2. Aami Bengali

Established in 2018, true to its name, 'Aami Bengali' is a restaurant where the true spirit of Bengali culture and cuisine is passionately upheld. Dedicated to preserving and sharing the authentic culinary experience of Bengal, Aami Bengali has been acclaimed by many as their go-to for the finest Bengali food in the Capital city. Their Bengali Thali and Mutton Curry are nothing short of heavenly. With its comfortable ambience, warm staff, and enticing menu, it's hard not to include Aami Bengali in your list.
Where: 40/56 Ground Floor, Pocket 40, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

Also Read: NDTV Goes For Mandatory Pandal Hopping During Puja. Here Are The Dishes That We Tried

3. Bijoli Grill

With its rich history, Bijoli Grill is a name that resonates with every true Bengali. With multiple locations across the country, it has earned a celebrity fan base including figures like Mithun Chakraborty and Zakir Hussain. Whether it's their creamy chicken rezala or their delectable Ilish Thali, every item on their menu is a culinary must-try. With its in-house spices and Kasundi, Bijoli Grill recreates the comforting feeling of being at home with every bite. The restaurant is committed to carrying forward the illustrious legacy of Bengali cuisine.
Where: No 3, Hailey Road, Banga Bhawan, Hamdard Nagar, Vakil Lane, Mandi House, Connaught Place, Delhi 110001

4. Amar Shonar Bangla

Amar Shona Bangla resides in the heart of Chittaranjan Park. Savour the delightful 'Maacher Jhol' while witnessing friendly carrom matches and passionate political discussions in CR Park. Its modest ambience will whisk you away to the enchanting streets of Kolkata. Don't miss their Mochar Cutlet, Ghanta, and Shuktoo.
Where: Shop No. 134, 135, 136 & 143, First Floor, Market No.2, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

5. Maa Tara Restaurant

Maa Tara is a well-kept secret among many Bengalis. From its humble beginnings, Maa Tara has evolved into a beloved destination for all. With every bite, from pakoras to paturis, you will be reminded of home-cooked goodness.
Where: Shop No. 45, 46, 47, Block H, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019

Be sure to explore these restaurants and relish the authentic and true taste of Bengal.

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Kendall Jenner Treats Her BFF Hailey Bieber To Home-Cooked Spaghetti Pasta

Kendall Jenner is always making headlines for something or another. This time, the Hollywood supermodel is in the news for being a living example of the saying “A friend in need is a friend indeed”. She proved it recently when her BFF Hailey Bieber was sick. And we all know that nothing sounds better than a freshly cooked meal when we are sick. So abiding by that, Kendall sent home-cooked spaghetti pasta for her. The pictures show a glass container filled with creamy spaghetti pasta garnished with what seems like oregano. The text with the picture read, “But does your best friend send you pasta when you are sick?” Take a look at her post here:
Also Read: Presenting The Result Of Kim Kardashian's Baking Session With Daughter Chicago 

Also Read: Can Kim Kardashian Cook? Her Latest Instagram Post Gets Fans Debating
In case Kendall Jenner's latest Instagram entry left you drooling over the cheesy pasta, we have just the right thing for you. Stop burning holes in your pockets to enjoy delicious pasta when you can do it all in the comfort of your home. We have pulled together a list of a few pasta dishes that will make your taste buds feel like they are in Italy.

1. Cheesy Vegetable Pasta

This pasta is made with a blend of colourful vegetables and is topped with cheese. Just a bite of it will make you drool at the first bite. And the best part? It only takes under 30 minutes to make. Recipe here.

2. Spaghetti with Cottage Cheese

For those who love cottage cheese, you'll absolutely love this spaghetti recipe. It will certainly be an instant hit with your family. Pair it with garlic bread and enjoy. Check out the recipe here.

3. Spaghetti Alio Olio Paperoncino

If you are someone who doesn't like cheese, then spaghetti alio olio is just the right pick for you. This easy-peasy meal is prepared in less than an hour. What are you waiting for? Click here for the recipe.

4. Caramelised Shallot Pasta

If you are planning a date night and wish to impress your lady love with something fancy, the caramelised shallot pasta recipe is all you need. The dish spreads the charm with caramelised onion puree and shallot puree. Here is your recipe.

5. Chilli Oil Butter Garlic Pasta

Need something quick? Don't worry; try out this chilli oil butter garlic pasta, which takes only 20 minutes to prepare. Take a look at the recipe here.

Try out these delicious pasta recipes, and let us know which one turned out to be your favourite in the comments below.

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Taste Of Korea In India: 5 Must-Try Snacks For Indian Foodies

For generations, Maggi has held its place as a cherished local snack, enjoyed by both young and seasoned food enthusiasts. However, with Korean culture and cuisine gaining global prominence, the culinary wave inevitably reaches India. After witnessing those tempting Korean convenience store videos, many of us have yearned for a bowl of piping hot ramen. The good news is that Korean snacks are now readily available in India, posing a formidable challenge to Maggi's popularity. Indulge in these Korean snacks loved and enjoyed by Indians.
Also Read: Explore The Best Of Korean Food - Visit These Restaurants In Delhi-NCR

Find the 5 best Korean snacks in India:

1. Ramen

A bowl of steaming ramen is soulful comfort food. It's a fiery, saucy, chewy delight with a burst of flavours. Korean instant ramen is now available in India in different flavours and brands, both in local markets and online stores across the country. From Shin Ramyun to Samyang, the Indian palate has embraced ramen for its bold spiciness and rich flavours.
Cost for one packet: INR 90-100

2. Honey Butter Chips

Indians have welcomed honey butter chips onto their list of favourite snacks. Honey butter chips equate to happiness. They strike an ideal balance, harmoniously blending sweet and savoury elements. They're irresistibly addictive and exceptionally satisfying. Although they might come at a slightly higher price point in India, rest assured, they are worth every rupee spent.
Cost for one packet: INR 300-500

3. Pocky/Pepero

Pocky is a thin cookie or wafer stick dipped in a range of delightful flavours like chocolate, matcha, strawberry, and much more. It's the ultimate snack for children and those with a sweet tooth. It's a fun snack to enjoy and share.
Cost for one packet: INR 100-150
Also Read: 5 Korean Delicacies You Can Enjoy For Breakfast

4. Tteokbokki

Tteokboki is a beloved Korean street food, now standing out as a preferred snack for many Indians. It's crafted from rice cakes and enhanced with a spicy sauce. It offers a chewy and spicy sensation with an explosion of flavours. While tteokbokki can be enjoyed in Korean restaurants, there are now instant versions that can be prepared by adding hot water.
Cost for one packet: INR 200-500

Tteokbokki is a must-try Korean dish. 
Photo Credit: iStock

5. Rice Cracker

Rice crackers embody the delicious essence of baked Korean snacks. Their sweet and salty combo makes them a perfect snack for everyone. Their satisfying crunchiness and healthiness further contribute to why they're an excellent choice.
Cost for one packet: INR 100-300

You can now relish these Korean snacks in the comfort of your home, hassle-free! These snacks offer a delightful and fulfilling experience, so if you haven't had the chance to try them yet, it's a must!

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Amazon Great Indian Festival: Enjoy Discounts Of Up To 70% On Induction Cooktops

An induction cooktop is an asset in every kitchen. Besides offering faster and even cooking, this energy-efficient appliance is also said to be safer than other cookstoves as it prevents burn injuries. That's not all, the compact cooktop does not make much space on your kitchen shelf. If you have been thinking of getting a new induction cooktop for your home, it's time to buy one now. The Amazon Great Indian Festival is offering up to 70% discounts on major cooktop brands, and the deals are too good to miss. 

Here Are 5 Induction Cooktops At Sale On Amazon: 

1. Prestige PIC 20 1600 Watts Induction Cooktop 

With an aerodynamic cooling system, automatic voltage regulator and anti-magnetic wall, the Prestige 1600-watt induction cooktop is ideal for Indian cooking as well as for international cuisines. It also offers automatic power and temperature adjustment. It was originally priced at INR 2,195, now available at INR 1,999. 

2. iBELL 20 YO Induction Cooktop 2000W With Full Touch Control

The iBell induction cooktop features auto shut-off and overheat protection for safe use. With full touch control and sleek design, it is a good buy. You'll also get 1-year standard warranty + 1-year additional warranty on free registration. From INR 4490, its price has now dropped to INR 1,999. It's a great deal! 

3. Pigeon by Stovekraft Cruise 1800-Watt Induction Cooktop 

Pigeon Cruise induction cooktop features 7 7-segment LED display for power and temperature. It also has high-grade electrical that protects against short circuits. Not just this, it also comes with 93 per cent energy-saving technology. Its original MRP is INR 3193 but you can get it for just INR 1,399 in the Amazon Great Indian Festival. 

4. Philips Viva Collection 2100-Watt Glass Induction Cooktop 

The Philips Viva induction cooktop offers a 0 to 3-hour time setting, 10 preset menus for different Indian recipes and a 24-hour preset timer function for delayed cooking. The sensor touch keys make it smooth and easy for you to cook on it. From INR 5995, the cooktop is not available at just INR 3,999.  

5. Elicacy Premium 2000 W Touch Panel Infrared Induction Cooktop 

The induction cooktop has 3 pre-set cooking modes for easy cooking and is compatible with all types of utensils including stainless steel, cast iron, glass, ceramic and even earthen pots. The 4-digit Digital LED display makes it easy to operate. The cooling fan automatically works when the temperature rises above 60 degrees. Its price has been reduced from INR 4799 to INR 2199. 

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