Get crunchy snacks without excess oil

• Use air fryers, roasting, or baking for healthier crunchy snacks
• Opt for puffed grains, veggie chips, or roasted chana and makhana
• Check labels for baked or roasted options to reduce oil intake

The satisfying crunch of a good snack is one of life’s simple pleasures. For many of us in India, however, that crunch often comes from a deep fryer. But what if you could have all the texture without the oil? It's entirely possible.

Embrace the Air Fryer

The air fryer has become a kitchen superstar for a reason. It circulates hot air to create a crisp, 'fried' texture using just a fraction of the oil. Many classic Indian snacks can be adapted for the air fryer with fantastic results. Think of samosas that are crisp on the outside and soft inside, made with just a light brush of oil. You can also make crunchy bhindi fries by tossing thinly sliced okra with besan and spices before air frying. Aloo tikki, masala peanuts, and even paneer tikka can be made healthier in minutes, giving you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep-frying.

The Magic of Roasting

Roasting is a simple, dry-heat cooking method that brings out the natural flavours of ingredients while creating a delightful crunch. It is one of the healthiest ways to prepare snacks. One of the best examples is roasted chana (chickpeas), a protein-packed snack that helps control appetite. Another fantastic option is makhana (fox nuts). These light, airy puffs can be dry-roasted or tossed with a teaspoon of ghee and your favourite spices like turmeric and chaat masala. They roast in about 10-12 minutes on low heat, turning into a perfectly crisp and flavourful snack that's low in calories and rich in nutrients.

Bake Your Own Veggie Chips

Instead of reaching for a bag of oily potato chips, why not make your own healthy version at home? Baking thin slices of vegetables is a fantastic way to create a crunchy, nutrient-dense snack. Sweet potatoes, beetroot, carrots, and even parsnips work wonderfully. The trick is to slice them as thinly as possible, ideally with a mandoline. Pat the slices dry to remove excess moisture, toss them with a tiny bit of oil and your choice of seasoning—think rosemary with sweet potato or curry powder with carrots—and bake in a preheated oven until crisp. Watch them closely, as they can go from crispy to burnt quite quickly.

Get Creative with Puffed Grains

Puffed grains are another excellent base for a low-oil crunchy snack. Murmura (puffed rice) is a classic ingredient in bhel puri, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a simple, light snack. You can make a quick and healthy chivda by dry roasting puffed rice with peanuts, curry leaves, and spices. It's a throwback to a simple, wholesome snack many grew up with. Similarly, puffed quinoa and ragi are becoming popular as they are not only crunchy but also packed with more protein and fibre than traditional options. These can be seasoned and enjoyed as a standalone snack or added to homemade trail mixes.

Smart Store-Bought Choices

When you don't have time to cook, reading labels becomes your best strategy. The snack aisle is now filled with options that are baked, roasted, or popped instead of fried. Look for these keywords on the packaging. Pay attention to the ingredients list and the nutritional information. Opt for snacks made from whole grains, lentils, or vegetables. Many brands now offer baked mathri, ragi chips, and soya sticks that provide a satisfying crunch with significantly less fat and fewer calories than their fried counterparts. Choosing snacks with simple ingredients and low sodium content is always a smart move.