Avoiding Fried Food? Try These Steamed Indian Snacks Instead

By Suprita Mitter

November 9, 2024

Steamed snacks in India offer a delicious, healthier way to enjoy traditional flavours. From fluffy idlis and tangy dhoklas to flavourful momos, these light bites capture the essence of Indian cuisine. Steamed treats are perfect for savouring without the heaviness of fried options.

Dholka, Gujarat

A fluffy, savoury cake made from fermented chickpea and rice batter, dhokla is spiced with green chillies and tempered with mustard seeds. This classic Gujarati snack is soft, tangy, and often enjoyed with green chutney.

Idli, South India

A staple South Indian snack, idlis are made from fermented rice and urad dal batter. Steamed to a spongy texture, they are served with sambar and coconut chutney.

Patra, Gujarat

Patra is made from colocasia leaves layered with a spiced gram flour paste, rolled up, steamed, and then sliced. It's slightly crispy outside and soft inside, with a savory-sweet flavour.

Modak, Maharashtra

This steamed dumpling, traditionally prepared during Ganesh Chaturthi, is filled with coconut and jaggery, flavoured with cardamom, and wrapped in rice flour dough. 

Puttu, Kerala

A South Indian favourite, puttu is made from rice flour layered with coconut and steamed in a cylindrical mould. It’s typically served with bananas, sugar, or even curry for a wholesome, energy-packed snack.

Momos

Originally from Tibet but widely enjoyed across India, momos are steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat. They’re served hot with spicy red chutney, making them a flavourful and filling street food.