ADDA Singapore is set to dazzle diners this Diwali with a limited-time Diwali Thali (Diwali platter), a culinary journey through India's diverse regional cuisines. This exquisite feast, available only from 28 October 2024 to 2 November 2024, offers a tantalising selection of dishes that showcase the rich flavours and traditions of various Indian states.
If you’ve always loved the complexity of flavours in Indian food but have been wary of the spice levels in most restaurants, this Diwali Thali at ADDA is the perfect way to get initiated. Move over, butter chickens of the world, it is time for the regional cuisines of India to shine, and shine they do. Chef Mural artfully showcases a range of Indian flavours that are but a mere glimpse into how diverse the region’s cuisines are.
From Poha-Crusted Assamese Fish from the rivers of East India to a woefully underrepresented Gujarati Kadhi (yoghurt and gram flour curry with a slightly sweet aftertaste) that pairs wonderfully with the nutty Navratan Pulao (rice with dry fruits), the thali takes you on an aromatic journey across the length and breadth of the country.
Served on a magnificent beaten copper platter, the thali is every bit as royal as the food served in it. It features a delightful assortment of regional specialities. From the North, experience the delicacy of Murgh Malai Kumbh (chicken and mushroom in a creamy gravy) with hints of cardamom. For a taste of South India, indulge in Mysore Mutton, a delicious tomato-based thick curry with a blend of aromatic spices. Gujarati Kadhi from the West and tri-coloured Stuffed Koftas from Central India continue to excite your taste buds with every bite you take.
Vegetarians are spoilt for options with plant-based options such as Hirva Masala Bhaji (mixed vegetables in spicy green curry) and Paneer Khada Masala which elevates cottage cheese with flavours imparted by whole spices native to South Asia. Our favourite part of the meal is Kurkura Nadru or crispy fried slivers of lotus stem, with the chef's special spices sprinkled on top.
The thalis are both priced at $38++ with well-curated dishes to give you a deeper understanding of the various regions of India. With more than 200 micro-cuisines in the country, there’s enough opportunity to break the myth of Indian food always being overly spicy or rich.
Though the Navratan Pulao plays its part well in highlighting each curry, no Indian meal is complete without a selection of breads. The Diwali Thali offers a choice of fluffy butter Naan, or the crowd favourite, Garlic Naan. To complement the main courses, order a cocktail from their extensive menu. The bartender weaves his magic into drinks with a slight twist such as a lip-smacking Whiskey Sour with Gula Melaka. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are a variety of options to choose from. Indians love their lassi or nimbu soda (lemonade) and they make great accompaniments to the thali too.
To conclude the culinary journey, the Diwali Thali features a spongy Rasmalai. Subtly flavoured, this light-as-air cheese dumpling drenched in flavoured and thickened milk, is the perfect finish to a delicious meal.
ADDA’s Sweet Hampers are always the rage in town every year. This year too, ADDA takes the timeless tradition of mithai (Indian sweets) and reinvents it with a bold, modern twist. Take home one of the spectacular Diwali Mithai Gift Hampers - a luxurious blend of innovation, specially crafted by Chef Manjunath Mural who meticulously invents new flavours each year to spark joy in every household.
These artisanal sweets elevate the festival experience, a great gift idea or for serving guests when they visit your home.
Indulge in a tropical escape with Gula Melaka Pandan, a harmonious blend of caramelised sweetness and fragrant pandan. Rose and Gulukand offer a delicate floral infusion that lingers on the palate, while Blueberry and Saffron burst with exotic zest. For a creamy, nutty delight, Peanut Butter and Cashew are the perfect pairing.
Oreo and Sesame offer a surprising twist of sweet and savoury, while Figs, Dates, Mulberry, and Nuts deliver a natural, earthy richness. Paan and Pistachio add a modern touch to a timeless favourite. Organic Charcoal and Coconut introduce a bold new flavour profile, elevating traditional mithai to a culinary masterpiece.
These gift hampers are more than just a luxurious indulgence. They represent a meaningful opportunity to make a difference. Every purchase supports children's education through Smile Foundation's Shiksha Na Ruke initiative in India. By choosing these hampers, you're not only gifting a delicious assortment of treats but also contributing to life-changing programs.
This Diwali, your festive gesture becomes even more significant as you help provide access to education for underprivileged children, ensuring their schooling continues without disruption and giving them the opportunities to transform their lives. This year, your gift is a symbol of both generosity and social impact.
The Diwali Thali at ADDA Singapore is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of Indian culture. The restaurant's kitsch Indian decor, combined with the warm service, creates a memorable dining experience. Whether you are a seasoned Indian food lover or new to the cuisine, the Diwali Thali and Mithai Hampers offer a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flavours of India.
About The Writer
Harnoor Channi-Tiwary is a well-published Travel Editor & Food Writer based in Singapore. With more than 13 years of editorial experience, she writes for some of the world’s top publications such as JW Marriott Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, Wine & Dine, The CEO Magazine, Korean Air, and Turkish Airlines and sits on the tasting panel of various food awards. Harnoor is also the Global Editor of Asia's premier luxury villa company, Elite Havens, and is currently working on a book based on her food trails across Southeast Asia, having already published an Expat Guide for India.
Recently graduated from the highly specialised 'Advanced Studies in Gastronomy' course at Le Cordon Bleu Paris, Harnoor brings with her a deeper understanding of cuisines, authentic flavours, and their evolution. The world of food and travel are the very axis of her life and her in-depth knowledge. writing expertise, and quick wit and humour make her one of the region's top food and travel writers.
If you would like Harnoor or any of the Expat Choice reporting team to visit your establishment as a guest to report on your unique experience and have this report published on our network, you can contact Expat Choice HQ by email with details about your offering at contact@expatchoice.asia.
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