In Singapore, Deepavali celebrations aren’t complete without a table full of food. From traditional vegetarian breakfasts to hearty curries and trays of sweets, food plays a central role in how the Festival of Lights is celebrated across homes, temples and communities. These dishes are more than festive. They’re symbols of togetherness, generosity and cultural heritage.
Here are 12 dishes you’re likely to find during Deepavali celebrations in Singapore.
1. Idli
Soft, steamed rice cakes often served with coconut chutney and sambar. A common vegetarian breakfast on Deepavali morning.
2. Vadai
Savoury lentil fritters that are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Sometimes served with chutney or dipped in sambar.
3. Chicken or Mutton Curry
Rich, spicy and aromatic, these curries are a mainstay at many family meals and open houses, served with rice or breads.
4. Biryani
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and either vegetables, chicken or mutton. Often prepared for lunch or dinner during Deepavali.
5. Sambar and Rasam
Staple vegetarian gravies in South Indian households. Sambar is a hearty lentil stew, while rasam is a tangy, spiced soup.
6. Prata or Chapati
Wheat-based flatbreads that are commonly served alongside curries and dhal. Light and ideal for soaking up gravy.
7. Ladoo
One of the most traditional Deepavali sweets. Round, rich and sweet, made from flour, ghee and sugar, sometimes with nuts or raisins.
8. Sugee Cookies
Crumbly semolina cookies that melt in your mouth. A festive treat popular in Singapore’s Eurasian and Indian communities.
9. Adhirasam
A traditional deep-fried sweet made from rice flour and jaggery. Dense and chewy with a slight crisp on the outside.
10. Ribbon Murukku
A crunchy, spiced rice flour snack shaped like ribbons. Extremely popular as a tea-time snack and for gifting.
11. Kara Boondi
Spicy, savoury chickpea flour pearls often tossed with peanuts and curry leaves. Commonly served in jars during Deepavali.
12. Payasam
A milk-based dessert made with vermicelli or rice, flavoured with cardamom and topped with ghee-fried nuts and raisins.
These dishes reflect the diversity of Singapore’s Indian community, combining South Indian traditions with local influences and cross-cultural favourites to create the perfect Deepavali celebrations. Some families prepare them all from scratch. Others mix home cooking with catered spreads or live food stations, especially when entertaining large groups.
For those looking to share festive flavours with colleagues, friends or neighbours, snacks like murukku, sugee cookies and ladoo tarts are an easy and meaningful gesture.
Sofnade offers a wide selection of Halal-certified Deepavali snack gift boxes featuring over 14 types of classic and modern treats. Perfect for your Deepavali celebrations this year, be it gifting, pantry tables or party favours. Beautifully packed and ready to share, they make a thoughtful addition to any celebration. Check out our Deepavali Snacks and Gifts Boxes.
