What are the most popular snacks in India and why?

Aarav Khatri
Aug 3 2023
0 Comments

Introduction to India's Snacking Culture

Every day as the sun sets, and my pet golden retriever, Max, starts napping after a long and active day, I often find myself reminiscing about the mouth-watering, vibrant, and diverse Indian snack culture that I was fortunate enough to experience in my past life as an adventurer and a writer, travelling across the streets and bustling markets of India. Commonly known as ‘chaat,’ the Indian snack cuisine is a delight for anyone who dabbles their culinary interests in a kaleidoscope of flavours.

From steamed momos, spicy pani puri, sizzling samosas to savoury chole bhature, these delights tantalize your taste buds and make you sink into an unforgettable gastronomical journey. Here is a sneak peek into some popular Indian snacks and their tantalizing tales. But be warned, you might feel an urge to pack your bags and catch the next flight to India after reading this. Even my parrot, Rio, who mimics everything I say, has started saying ‘Indian snacks’ because of how often I talk about them now.

Crunchy Samosas: The Quintessential Indian Delight

Samosas, a golden brown triangle of happiness, are by far the most popular snack in India. Capturing the essence of Indian street food with its vibrant filling and crispy shell, this savory dish is relished by everyone from school children to the elderly, making it the reigning champion of Indian snack world. Whether in the bustling streets of Mumbai or the chaotic lanes of Delhi, the upbeat rhythm of the Indian cities is incomplete without the sizzle of frying samosas.

Packed with diverse fillings including spicy potatoes, hearty meats, or tangy lentils, a samosa envelops surprise in every bite. The iconic samosa is synonymous with Indian street food culture and has embedded itself into every social occasion in India – be it a birthday party, festival, or a casual gathering. So, if you’re ever in India, do not miss this crispy golden delight, it’s as essential as adding Vegemite to your toast here in Australia.

Paani Puri: The Extravagant Explosion of Flavors

Emerging from the heartlands of India, Pani Puri is more than just a snack - It's a splendid mixture of tantalizing flavours combined to create a delightful eating experience. Also known as golgappa, this Indian snack has rightly captured the essence of Indian flavours in a sphere. Imagine a small, hollow, light-as-air crispy shell that you fill with flavourful fillings and dip in a tangy tamarind water. As soon you put one in your mouth, it’s like a party of flavours that makes your senses dance with joy.

My daughter, Damini and my son, Dhruv have been pleading with me to recreate the magic of Pani Puri here in Canberra, although the spicy tamarind water still shocks young Dhruv a bit. Nevertheless, the joy of assembling your own Pani Puri and enjoying the explosion of flavours is something that nothing else can replicate.

Vada Pav: The Indian "Burger"

Thought burgers were America’s ingenious creation? India might have a rebuttal to that. Meet Vada Pav, often termed as the Indian Burger. Originating from the vibrant state of Maharashtra, Vada Pav has fast become a beloved dish throughout India. It comprises a spicy potato-filled deep-fried ball (vada) cleverly tucked inside a bread bun (pav), and served with an assortment of chutneys and a fried chilli. It has quite a bite!

I vividly remember, during my travel to Mumbai, how the simplicity and relatability of Vada Pav had fascinated me. Just like the city, the snack is fast, affordable, and gratifying. Away from the fancy restaurants and complex dishes, Vada Pav stands as every Mumbaikar's quick fix energy booster and soul food.

Chole Bhature: North India's Guilty Pleasure

Moving up north, another cherished snack is Chole Bhature, a true blue Punjabi delicacy. The combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) and deep-fried bread (bhature) is a match made in culinary heaven. Just writing about it brings back memories of me trying out this rich and robust dish amidst the lively streets of Chandigarh.

The taste of soft, fluffy bhature accompanied by the flavourful chole tickles your tastebuds and takes you on a gustatory journey like no other. Without a doubt, this fascinating fusion of flavours and textures encourages not just the locals but travellers from far and wide to join in the chaat frenzy. But caution! It’s like opening a packet of TimTams, you’ll never stop at one.

In conclusion, India, the vibrant land of flavours and spices, offers a plethora of popular snacks. They speak a universal language of love and share a piece of India's soul with every bite. The diversity, multitudes of flavours and sheer joy these snacks bring are why they are so popular, and why even someone from Canberra, Australia can't stop raving about them! So, until my next snack-infused adventure, keep serving up the good stuff and keep sharing your stories of culinary explorations.

Latest posts

Why is Air India going in private hands?

Air India, the flag carrier airline of India, is set to be privatised after the Government of India announced plans to divest the airline. This is part of the Indian government's plan to divest its stake in non-strategic assets and reduce its fiscal deficit. The privatisation of Air India would enable the airline to access capital and capitalise on competitive advantages, such as better technology and improved working capital. This, in turn, would allow the airline to focus on increasing its market share and profitability.
When is the Mi Max 3 launching in India?

The Xiaomi Mi Max 3 is an upcoming phablet from Xiaomi, rumored to be launching in India very soon. The phone is expected to feature a massive 6.99-inch display, Snapdragon 636 processor, dual rear cameras, and a 5,500mAh battery. The device is also rumored to have a USB Type-C port, a rear mounted fingerprint scanner, and will run on MIUI 10. The Mi Max 3 is expected to launch in India sometime in August or September. It is expected to be priced around Rs. 15,999 for the base model.
Which airline is better, Saudia or Air India?

After comparing and analyzing, it's clear that choosing between Saudia and Air India ultimately boils down to individuals' preferences. While Saudia is known for its top-notch in-flight services and modern aircraft, Air India shines in its broad network coverage and affordable pricing. Saudia often edges out with its punctuality and customer service, but Air India's frequent flyer program is notably rewarding. So, if you prioritize comfort and timeliness, Saudia might be your go-to, but if your focus is on cost-effectiveness and extensive routes, Air India could be a better choice. It's all about what matters most to you in your air travel experience.
Which are the best 15 hindi newspapers in India?

Boy oh boy, are we in for a wild ride today! We're going to dive into the vibrant world of the top 15 Hindi newspapers in India. Hold onto your reading glasses because we're embarking on a whirlwind tour from Dainik Jagran's rich content to Amar Ujala's gripping news stories. But wait, there's more! Let's not forget the spicy editorials of Hindustan and the deep dives of Jansatta. So sit tight and buckle up because this is your express train to the riveting realm of Hindi journalism in India!
Who has acquired Air India from the government of India?

Tata Sons, one of India's largest conglomerates, has recently acquired Air India from the government of India. This historic move marks a full circle for Air India, which was originally owned by Tata before being nationalized in the 1950s. The government decided to sell the airline due to its long-standing financial woes. This acquisition is hoped to revitalize Air India, helping it regain its earlier reputation and become profitable again. It's an exciting development that I believe will have a significant impact on the aviation industry in India.