Indian Snacks

Dosa is a popular South Indian delicacy that has gained popularity across India and around the world. It is a type of crepe made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal, which is then cooked on a griddle. While dosas are generally considered a healthy meal option, there are certain things one should be aware of to avoid the "dosa dosa" or the pitfalls of eating too much of it. Firstly, the amount of oil used in making dosas can be a concern, as excessive consumption of oil can lead to health problems. Secondly, the accompaniments like sambar and chutney can be high in salt, leading to health issues such as high blood pressure. Therefore, while enjoying dosas, it is important to keep a check on the portion size and accompaniments to ensure a healthy and balanced meal.

Pav Bhaji is a popular street food dish from Mumbai, India, that has gained a fan following around the world. It consists of a buttered and toasted bun, known as Pav, served with a spiced vegetable curry, known as Bhaji. The bhaji is made with a medley of vegetables, including potatoes, tomatoes, peas, onions, and spices, which are mashed and cooked together. It is a delicious and filling meal that is enjoyed by people of all ages. However, since it is often prepared using lots of butter and oil, it can be high in calories and not suitable for those on a low-fat diet. To enjoy pav bhaji in a healthier way, opt for whole wheat buns and use minimal butter or oil in the preparation.

Samosas are a popular snack and appetizer in South Asia and around the world. They are triangular-shaped pastry shells, filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, onions, and sometimes minced meat. They are then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Samosas are known for their delicious taste and crispy texture, making them a favorite among snack lovers. However, they can be high in calories and unhealthy fats due to the frying process. To enjoy samosas in a healthier way, consider baking or air-frying them instead of deep-frying. Also, using healthier filling options like vegetables or lean meats can make them a more nutritious snack.

Misal Pav is a popular street food dish from the Western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is a spicy curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with crunchy farsan, and served with buttered and toasted pav bread. The dish is known for its fiery flavor, which comes from the use of a special blend of spices known as misal masala. Misal pav is not only delicious but also nutritious, as sprouted beans are a good source of protein and fiber. However, it is important to keep in mind that the spiciness level of the dish can vary, and those with a sensitive stomach may need to adjust the spice level accordingly.

Kanda Bhaji or Onion Bhaji is a popular snack and appetizer from India. It is made by dipping thin slices of onion into a spicy batter made of chickpea flour and deep-frying until crispy and golden brown. The result is a delicious and crunchy snack with a perfect balance of flavors, making it a favorite among Indian food lovers. However, the deep-frying process makes it high in calories and not the healthiest option. To enjoy kanda bhaji in a healthier way, consider air-frying or baking instead of deep-frying. Additionally, using a healthier batter made with whole wheat flour or gram flour can make it more nutritious.

Vada Pav is a popular street food snack from the Indian state of Maharashtra. It consists of a deep-fried potato fritter, known as Vada, sandwiched between a soft and fluffy bread roll, known as Pav, and served with chutneys and fried green chilies. Vada Pav is not only tasty but also affordable, making it a favorite among college students and office-goers. However, since it is deep-fried, it can be high in calories and not the healthiest option. To enjoy Vada Pav in a healthier way, consider using a whole wheat bun instead of white bread and air-frying or baking the vada instead of deep-frying. Additionally, using healthier filling options like vegetables or lentils can make it a more nutritious snack.

Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka, is a popular street food snack from India. It consists of a hollow, crispy puri shell filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, chickpeas, onions, and tamarind chutney, and then submerged in a spicy and tangy mint water. The entire puri is then eaten in one bite, giving a burst of flavors and textures in the mouth. Pani puri is a favorite among people of all ages and is widely enjoyed across India. However, it is important to ensure that the puris and chutneys are prepared hygienically to avoid any risk of foodborne illness

Bhel Puri is a popular street food snack from India. It is a savory mixture of puffed rice, sev (thin crispy noodles made from chickpea flour), chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and boiled potatoes, and tangy chutneys like tamarind and mint. The ingredients are mixed together and served immediately, giving a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Bhel Puri is not only delicious but also affordable, making it a favorite among college students and office-goers. However, it is important to ensure that the ingredients are fresh and hygienically prepared to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.