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Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can sometimes be challenging, especially when it comes to snacking on the go. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious snacks even when you're busy. In this article, we will explore a range of healthy snack ideas inspired by the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of India. From mouth-watering street foods to traditional homemade treats, these Indian snacks are packed with flavour, nutrition, and convenience.
Masala Roasted Chickpeas:
Roasted chickpeas, also known as chana, are a protein-rich and fibre-packed snack that will keep you energized throughout the day. Toss cooked chickpeas with a mix of spices like chaat masala, cumin, coriander, and chilli powder, then roast them until crunchy. These savoury and spicy chickpeas are perfect for munching on during a busy day.
Sprouted Moong Bhel:
Sprouted moong (mung) beans are a powerhouse of nutrition. Mix sprouted moong with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with chaat masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. This crunchy and tangy snack is packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients.
Baked Multigrain Mathri:
Mathri, a popular Indian savoury snack, can be made healthier by baking instead of deep-frying. Prepare dough using a combination of whole wheat flour, besan (chickpea flour), and a touch of semolina. Shape the dough into small discs and bake until golden brown. These crispy and flavorful materials are perfect for satisfying your savoury cravings.
Fruit Chaat:
When you need a refreshing and nutritious snack, opt for a colourful fruit chaat. Combine a variety of seasonal fruits such as diced mangoes, apples, oranges, pomegranate seeds, and bananas. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of black salt, and a pinch of chaat masala for a burst of tangy flavours.
Sattu Ladoo:
Sattu, a nutritious flour made from roasted Bengal gram (chana dal), is a popular ingredient in many Indian recipes. Mix sattu with jaggery (or dates) and a hint of ghee, then shape the mixture into small round ladoos. These protein-rich and naturally sweetened treats are perfect for a quick energy boost on the go. You can also opt for a sattu drink on the go. Mix sattu with water, a pinch of salt, roasted cumin powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This hydrating and nutritious drink is perfect for a quick energy boost.
Roasted Makhanas (Fox Nuts):
Makhanas, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, are a light and crunchy snack that is gaining popularity for its health benefits. Roast makhanas in a dry pan until they turn crispy, and then season them with a sprinkle of salt or a mix of spices like turmeric, black pepper, and cumin. These low-calorie snacks are rich in antioxidants and make for a guilt-free indulgence.
Quinoa Bhel: Give the classic bhel puri a healthy twist by using cooked quinoa instead of puffed rice. Mix quinoa with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tangy tamarind chutney. This protein-rich version of bhel puri is perfect for a quick and nutritious snack.
Beetroot Cutlets: Grate boiled beetroots and mix them with mashed potatoes, grated carrots, and spices. Shape the mixture into cutlets and shallow fry them until golden brown. These vibrant and flavorful cutlets are not only visually appealing but also packed with essential nutrients.
Moong Dal Chilla: Moong dal chilla is a savoury pancake made from ground moong dal (mung beans) batter. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and coriander leaves to the batter, and cook the pancakes on a griddle until golden brown. These protein-packed chillas make for a satisfying and healthy snack.
Baked Shakkar Para: Shakkar para is a popular sweet and crispy snack. Give it a healthier twist by baking it instead of deep-frying. Prepare the dough with whole wheat flour, ghee, and a touch of jaggery. Cut it into diamond shapes and bake until golden brown. These guilt-free delights are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
With these interesting and nutritious Indian snack ideas, you can enjoy a variety of flavours and textures while prioritizing your health. From baked snacks to protein-packed delights, these options offer a delicious way to satisfy your cravings while keeping your energy levels up. So, next time you're on the go, opt for these delightful Indian snacks to nourish your body and tantalize your taste buds.
