Explore 10 Hidden Indian Snacks Bursting with Flavor & Tradition! From Paddu to Kothimbir Vadi, uncover these culinary gems
India, a land known for its vibrant culture and diverse traditions, also boasts
an incredible culinary landscape. While samosas, pakoras, and jalebis often steal the spotlight, there's a whole world of lesser-known Indian snacks waiting to be discovered.
These hidden gems, often regional specialties, offer a unique explosion of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. So, ditch the usual suspects and embark on a flavorful journey to explore these 10 irresistible Indian snacks you probably haven't heard of yet!
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these incredible, mostly vegetarian options from across the country.
Paddu" or "Appe": South Indian savory spheres, crispy outside, soft inside, popular snack with tangy chutneys
First on our list is "Paddu," also known as "Appe" in some South Indian states. These delightful little spheres are made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, similar to dosa or idli batter but with a twist.
The batter is seasoned with onions, green chilies, coriander, and sometimes even grated vegetables, then cooked in a special pan with hemispherical molds. The result is a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a soft and fluffy interior.
Paddu is a popular breakfast or evening snack, often served with coconut chutney or sambar. Its subtle tanginess and satisfying texture make it a truly addictive treat. It is available in many tiffin centres of south India. You can always find it with variety of chutney options available.
This snack is loved by kids and adults alike.
Unique Lilva Kachori from Gujarat with sweet pigeon pea filling
Next, we have "Lilva Kachori" from Gujarat. Unlike the typical kachori filled with spiced lentils, Lilva Kachori is stuffed with fresh pigeon peas (lilva), giving it a distinctly sweet and earthy flavor. The outer crust is made from a mixture of flour, ghee, and spices, deep-fried to a golden crisp.
Biting into a Lilva Kachori is a delightful experience, with the crunchy exterior giving way to the soft, flavorful filling. This snack is especially popular during the winter months when fresh pigeon peas are in season.
Many families in Gujarat prepare this in large quantities and store it to be had during any time of the day. It is generally less spicy than other varieties of kachori.
Discover Tamil Nadu's crispy Dal Vada, a popular street food in South India
Our third delightful discovery is "Dal Vada" from Tamil Nadu. These crispy lentil fritters are a staple street food in many parts of South India.
Made from a coarse paste of soaked and ground toor dal (split pigeon peas), along with onions, green chilies, ginger, and spices, dal vada is deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The outside is crunchy, while the inside is soft and flavorful.
It is commonly served hot with coconut chutney or sambar and is perfect for dipping or pairing with tea. Many people enjoy eating this with curd as well. The simple yet satisfying snack is a testament to the magic of south Indian cuisine.
Savor the flavors of Maharashtra with Thalipeeth, a nutritious multi-grain pancake packed with flavor
Now, let's travel to Maharashtra for "Thalipeeth." This savory multi-grain pancake is a nutritious and delicious snack that's packed with flavor.
It's made from a mix of flours like rice flour, wheat flour, jowar (sorghum) flour, and besan (gram flour), along with chopped onions, coriander, spices, and sometimes even vegetables like grated carrots or potatoes.
The dough is then flattened into a thin pancake and cooked on a griddle with a little oil until golden brown and crispy. Thalipeeth is often served with yogurt, butter, or chutney. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or snack.
Popular North Indian snack: Dahi Bhalle, a delectable dish found in chaat shops and households
Moving towards North India, we encounter "Dahi Bhalle," which are also known as "Dahi Bade". Found in various chaat shops in North India, Dahi Bhalle are one of the most sought after snacks.
Prepared with Vada made of urad dal, coated with curd and then a combination of two or more chutneys, it is delectable and appetizing. Found in various cities and states of North India, this is also a popular dish in many households.
The ingredients may vary from place to place, but it is very appetizing and delectable.
Traditional Maharashtra snack: Kothimbir vadi with besan and coriander
Further, in the interiors of Maharashtra the "Kothimbir vadi" is considered one of the foremost appetizers and snack. Prepared with Besan (gram flour) and with generous addition of coriander leaves and spices, it is irresistible.
The base is prepared and then cut into pieces and fried to make it crispy and tasteful. This is prepared in almost all household in Maharashtra and is a traditional snack.
AI Generated Content. Glance/InMobi shall have no liability for the content
