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Munch Smart With Roasted Indian Snacks That Beat The Fried Favorites

Discover some of top roasted snacks from India that are big on flavour and crunch, that too without any oil!

Swambhavi Sikdar

Craving the bold and spicy flavours of Indian snacks, but want to cut out on the grease?

The top roasted snacks recipes from India beautifully bring out the crunch, aroma, and burst of authentic taste that you crave. From spiced chickpeas to tangy peanuts, these guilt free treats redefine snacking with a wholesome goodness and satisfying crunch. Perfect for tea time munching or on the go bites, roasted snacks recipes bring you the joy of traditional flavours, but with a healthier twist. Here’s for you to taste the magic of India, roasted to perfection!

Rise of roasted snacks in India 

In recent years, India has witnessed a remarkable shift in snacking habits that are marked by the rise of roasted snacks. As health consciousness continues to grow among people, traditional fried snack options are steadily being replaced by roasted alternatives that offer the same rich flavours with far less oil. From urban professionals to fitness enthusiasts, people are embracing roasted chickpeas, roasted almonds, roasted makhana, and more as nutritious and protein packed choices. This trend towards roasted snack recipes reflects a larger movement towards mindful eating, where taste, tradition, and health coexist beautifully.

Why roasted snacks beat fried ones? 

Roasted snacks are outshining fried ones for several compelling reasons. Here’s what you can consider-

  1. Lower in fat and calories- Roasted snacks use little to no oil, which makes them a lighter and healthier alternative to fried options.
  2. Nutrient rich- Roasting helps retain essential nutrients, proteins, and fiber that are often lost during the process of deep frying.
  3. No trans fats- They are free from harmful trans fats that are commonly found in fried foods.
  4. Easy to digest- With less grease, roasted snacks are gentler on the stomach.
  5. Equally flavourful- Seasoned with Indian spices, roasted snack recipes deliver the same bold and satisfying taste without the heaviness of fried ones.
  6. Guilt free indulgence- Roasted snacks makes for a perfect snacking option for mindful eaters who want a crunchy and tasty snack that supports a healthier lifestyle.

Roasted Indian snack recipes you definitely cannot miss out on 

There is always something magical about the aroma of freshly roasted snacks, warm, toasty, and irresistibly inviting. In India, where snacking is almost like a ritual, roasted delights are taking the center stage as healthier and tastier alternatives to fried foods. These crunchy treats celebrate the essence of Indian flavours, while keeping wellness in mind. 

1. Masala roasted chickpeas 

Crispy, spicy, and incredibly addictive, roasted chickpeas are a powerhouse of protein and crunch. Whole chickpeas are tossed in olive oil, turmeric, red chili, cumin, and a hint of chaat masala before being slowly roasted to golden perfection. Each bite bursts with an earthy warmth and zesty spice, making it a guilt free snack that pairs perfectly with your evening tea or a refreshing lemonade. 

2. Spiced roasted makhana 

Light as air yet satisfyingly crunchy, roasted makhana has become a modern Indian favourite. Ghee roasted lotus seeds are coated with a mix of black salt, pepper, and tangy amchur to give you that punch of flavour. High in fiber, and low in calories, this snack delivers nourishment with every handful, boasting of a perfect balance of health and taste that melts in your mouth. 

3. Roasted masala peanuts 

Bold, nutty, and irresistibly spiced, roasted masala peanuts are the ultimate tea time companion. Peanuts are dry roasted until golden, then tossed with a flavorful blend of roasted cumin, chili powder, and curry leaves. The result is a savoury crunch that is both satisfying and energising, ideal for munching during work breaks or movie nights. 

4. Tangy roasted moong dal

A twist on a traditional favourite, this roasted moong dal snack perfectly combines protein powder with a delightful crispiness. The split green gram is dry roasted till it turns light and crunchy, then seasoned with salt, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of masala. Its tangy flavour and feather light texture make it a wholesome alternative to other deep fried namkeens. 

5. Roasted chivda 

Roasted chivda is a lighter and roasted take on the classic Indian trail mix. Thin poha flakes are roasted with peanuts, curry leaves, mustard seeds, turmeric, and a hint of sugar for that sweet and salty balance. Fragrant and flavourful, this roasted snack recipe offers a beautiful play of textures, which embodies crispiness, nuttiness as well as aroma. You can also store it for days, which makes this a perfect jar snack for anytime cravings.

6. Honey roasted almonds 

Sweet, glossy, and utterly irresistible, honey roasted almonds bring together the best of crunch and caramelised flavour. Premium almonds are lightly roasted until fragrant, then glazed with a blend of honey, a touch of sea salt, and a hint of cinnamon. The result is a golden and crunchy treat that satisfies both your sweet and savoury cravings. 

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