Suvir Saran

I think I tend to agree here. Butter chicken is made similarly and was made at Moti Mahal I believe... And we have discussed it in another thread.

Well, I was going give you a list, but then decided you should try what you like!! If you really want my opinion, I would recommend the chickpea pancakes and the stuffed idlies and the anar chaat (pomegrante) Do the Idlis need to sit overnight? Does your book have a short cut? I have anars (pomegrantes) and so will certainly make that. Still planning a menu. Not sure what I will end up making...

what are you saying tommy? are you implying I will not be allowed? Tommy is being inscrutable. Suvir, you are most welcome, especially if you come bearing curry-scented desserts. If that is the case, all I will do is bring a large can of Curry Powder.. and sprinkle it on everything. It will make all that you taste cutting edge and special.

Spicegirl, Is there a recipe or maybe 2 that I should try from your book for a Diwali dinner? Savory recipes please...

How do you make your Dhoklas? Recipe please...

I love fried Idlis... Great to eat in winter morning in the Northern Plains.. amazig with Coconut Mint Chutney.

Simple snacky things, making bite size chickpea pancakes to be served with Cilantro chutney, Indian Chex Mex and steamed channa dal spice cakes! I am getting hungry already!! Chickpea pancakes - Are these what we call Cheelas? Made with Besan (chickpea flour) and they also have onions, cilantro and green chiles? I had some Thursday... Delicious! Indian Chex Mex - What is your recipe? Do you buy it or prepare them? Chana Dal Spice Cakes - Are these Dhoklas or Chana Vada?

what are you saying tommy? are you implying I will not be allowed?

All sounds wonderful. What savory stuff are you preparing?

Spicegirldc, What are you cooking today? What recipes would you reccomend I try from your book for this occasion... I may try one or two... Any ideas?? And do you cook all vegetarian food today or does it not matter? I know many Hindus keep this day a vegetarian day. Not sure what others on eGullet do...

Sweet Diwali The above is an article that our very own spicegirldc wrote for India New England News. Below is an excerpt.... Sweet Diwali to all! Sweet Diwali Cookbook author shares recipes for holiday treats By Monic Bhide Close your eyes and picture this: You are on a hilltop, looking at a dark moonless sky. The dark night suddenly bursts with brilliant light. Colorful sparkles light up the sky as the emit a magical dust. You sense a glow, you look down toward the earth. A stunning view awaits you. Lights as far as your eyes can see, in every shape and size, from small terracotta lamps to large, colorful light bulbs. The smells of delicious rice pudding and mouthwatering carrot halwa penetrate your senses. You hear the children laughing, the bells in the temple chiming, the sounds of chants and prayers being offered. You feel a sense of warmth and well being. Then you feel as though a gentle hand has patted your head. You, and those around you, have been blessed — it is Diwali.

I see you are light on Indians as well. Maybe I can help fill that gap.

And when is this tasting? Am I too late to try and join?

I am fine with the anonymity. Tommy's pearls of wisdom helped me get to this point. I can respect the need of some to want anonymity on here. Sorry for having been curious before...

I will be there...

Which brand would you recommend, Suvir dear? I've been thinking of buying one, and you just talked me into it. Cathy, like with most of my cooking, my pressure cookers are humble. I have some Prestige, Hawkins and Fagor. The first two brands are those I brought with me from India. I am sure you will be happy with whatever brand you choose. I am sure the fancier ones are really high tech... But most pressure cookers are quite safe these days. I have bought one of mine at Zabars.... I am sure the sales staff would be happy to assist you with some feedback. Pressure cookers are a great thing to have at home. Lentils and beans become easy to prepare. Boiling potatoes cannot be simpler. Making Khitchreee and Mujaddara is easy.

What to make for Diwali? What are your favorite Diwali dishes? What else do you do that is unique to Diwali?

I am nervous.... But thanks for your encouraging words...

Are you talking about the Brooklyn factory? Yes they do have a retail store at the entrance. Ask to taste a few... or even pay for a taste before you buy too many...Always a good thing to do...

i'm guessing that everyone at dinner will know who they are at that time. the point, however, is that the rest of the world won't know where they will be and when they will be there there. Makes full sense. Thanks for helping me out Tommy! Point well taken.

I have 6 pressure cookers. And the most I have had on the stove at the same time (cooking with them that is) is 3. I swear by them and make almost all kinds of stuff in them. I am not sure what I would do without them. And I have never had any accidents. (Will touch wood now that I have said that.)

Maybe I should not come to the dinner and plead with the restaurant to seat 42 people... That way the Anons can find a seat at the table.... Would hate to hav them not get included...

I am having a difficult time trying to fit in just myself... Hardly room for all of me.. Not sure I can even imagine fitting extras.... And you make vulgar things sounds so culinary.... Well why do these people choose to be anonymous? It is very strange.

You noticed! I thought only I knew... for I have to put on my trousers...

Lesley, I baked the other day using that new tin... The brownies took more time than what Ms. Child's book reccomends baking them for. I was using a calphalon brownie pan.. and so had lowered the temperature by 25F. Should I not have done that? What kind of a pan are you using? How long do you bake the brownies? PS: MY oven temperature is callibrated correctly.