While a lot of people travel abroad for their studies, some travel for work, and some to explore different parts of the world. Yes, indeed the idea of seeing new places, experiencing new lifestyles, and exploring food is very exciting. But what if some foods don’t suit your taste palate? So, better be safe than sorry and carry some tasty Indian snacks along. You know what? It's just not about the taste but Indian snacks can provide a taste of home and comfort when you're far away from familiar cuisines.
Traveling can be stressful, and having access to your favorite snacks can provide a sense of comfort and reduce homesickness. Best part? If you have specific dietary restrictions, allergies, or preferences, having Indian snacks on hand can ensure you have access to safe and suitable food options. Having snacks readily available can save you time and money while exploring a new destination. You won't have to search for food when you're hungry, especially in places where Indian cuisine may not be readily available. In case of food-related issues like an upset stomach or difficulty finding vegetarian or vegan options, having Indian snacks can serve as a backup plan to keep you nourished.
In some tourist areas, buying snacks from local shops can be expensive. Bringing your own snacks can help you save money on food expenses. Also, during long flights or layovers, having Indian snacks can be a lifesaver when airport food options are limited or expensive. Isn’t it amazing? While trying local cuisine is an integral part of traveling, there may be times when you prefer the comfort of familiar flavours, especially if you are in a place with radically different culinary traditions.
So, if you or any of your family member is traveling abroad anytime soon, here are 8 Indian snacks that should be there in your bag.
Thepla
A popular Gujarati snack, thepla is a thin, spiced flatbread made from wheat flour and fenugreek leaves. They are perfect for a quick snack or to use as a wrap with some pickles or chutney. They are very easy to carry and survive for a longer period.
Namkeen Mix
A mixture of various crispy snacks like sev, bhujia, and roasted nuts. This namkeen mix is savory, crunchy, and perfect for munching on during long flights or road trips. It is easy to carry and you can have these without any fuss and chaos. And best part? They can keep your taste buds alive.
Chakli
Chakli is a spiral-shaped, deep-fried snack traditionally made from rice flour and spices. They have a wonderful crunch and come in different spice levels. While traveling abroad, chakli could be a perfect snack to carry and savour during the journey.
Khakhra
Khakhra is a thin and crispy flatbread made from wheat flour or millet. They come in various flavours like masala, methi or fenugreek, or plain. Khakhra is lightweight and doesn't easily get crushed. One can have it with tea and this makes up for a crunchy, tasty, and wholesome snack especially while traveling.
Mathri
Mathi or Mathi is a deep-fried snack made from all-purpose flour and spices. They have a wonderful crunch and come in different spice levels and flavours. Mathris are easy to carry and filling for the tummy. They go perfectly well with tea or pickles.
Murukku
Similar to chakli, murukku is a South Indian snack made from rice flour and urad dal or black gram. It's often seasoned with cumin seeds and asafoetida, giving it a unique flavor. They have the right crunch and are loaded with a blend of Indian spices which makes them delicious.
Chiwda
Chiwda is a popular snack enjoyed in almost every other Indian household. It is a mixture of various ingredients like puffed rice, peanuts, fried gram dal, and spices. It's a flavourful and crunchy snack that can be stored in an airtight container for an extended period. Thus, it is ideal to be carried while traveling abroad.
Aloo Bhujia
Aloo bhujia is a crispy and spicy potato snack enjoyed worldwide. It's available in various brands and can be a spicy addition to your snack collection while traveling.