Board-ifully desi: Platters that steal the festive spotlight

From chaat and mithai spreads to snack-laden platters, chefs are giving the classic board a desi makeover this festive season with bold flavours, bright colours, and sweet nostalgia

- Jatan Kalra

It isn’t festive season without an assortment of mithai at the end of a meal or puja.

Mix classics like motichoor ladoos, kaju barfi, jalebis, sandesh, pedas, and gulab jamuns. "Balance rich sweets like kaju katli with lighter ones such as sandesh, coconut laddoo, or dry fruit rolls. Add roasted nuts and seasonal fruits for freshness and to cleanse the palate," says chef Reetu Uday Kugaji. Add a modern twist with fusion mithais like chocolate pedas or mithai truffles. For a truly 'gramworthy spread, serve kheer or mishti doi in mini earthen pots.