Whenever Indian snacks come to mind, it is the fried items that are most generally relished by people. Be it vegetarian snacks like pakora and samosa or non-vegetarian snacks like chicken popcorn or croquettes, these snacks satisfy our appetite, especially in the evening with a cup of chai or coffee.
There are an innumerable number of fans of fried snacks. However, as much as they are tantalising to the taste buds, they are not good for your health. Deep-fried snacks are high in unhealthy fats, are calorie-dense, and are low in nutrients. It is often hard to digest deep-fried snacks and may cause bloating, indigestion, and other gastric problems. To avoid health-related ailments occurring from deep-fried snacks, it is better to switch snacks to healthy alternatives. Snacks are meant to be a bit of an indulgence and thus, they shouldn’t be bland.
This article will provide non-fried snack items that can be enjoyed in the evening. Take a look:
- Makhana Bhel
It is a delightful and healthy twist on street-side food. This snack incorporates the light and crunchy texture of makhana or fox nuts. The innovative snack contains roasted makhana with a colourful array of chopped vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and green chillies, along with tangy tamarind chutney and spicy green chutney for a burst of flavours. It is topped with roasted peanuts, sev, and fresh coriander leaves.
- Dhokla
A very popular savoury snack hailing from the state of Gujarat, it is a light, spongy-textured food. It is primarily made from fermented chickpea flour (besan) or rice flour batter. Dhokla undergoes a fermentation process that extends its softness and subtle sourness. Dhokla is made by pouring the batter into a pan and then steaming it until cooked through. It is cut into square or diamond shapes and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies.
- Khandvi
This non-fried snack also originates from Gujarat. Made from gram flour and yoghurt, khandvi is known for its unique texture and flavour. The batter is prepared by mixing gram flour, yoghurt, and water and then seasoned with spices like turmeric, green chilli, and mustard seeds. The mixture is cooked to a smooth consistency and then spread thinly on a flat surface. After it has cooled, it is rolled into tight cylinders and cut into bite-sized pieces. It is garnished with grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves and tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves.
- Channa Chaat
This is a tangy and spicy dish and is made with boiled chickpeas, combining them with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and fresh coriander leaves. The chaat is then seasoned with a blend of chaat masala, cumin powder, and black salt, along with a tinge of lemon juice for an added zing. It can also be made by adding diced potatoes, boiled peanuts, or crunchy sev.
- Bhel Puri
It is a beloved street food originating from the streets of Mumbai. This snack is a tantalising combination of puffed rice, crispy sev, chopped onions, tomatoes, and boiled potatoes, all tossed together with tangy tamarind and green chutney. The snack is garnished with fresh coriander leaves and sprinkles of chaat masala.
- Ragi Idli
This is a nutritious and wholesome variant of the popular South Indian idli. This recipe incorporates ragi flour along with fermented urad dal batter. They exude an earthy undertone, which can be consumed as a nutritious evening snack with sambar, green, and coconut chutney. Meanwhile, ragi offers an array of health benefits and is delicious.