India’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with each region boasting its own distinctive snacks that have been passed down through generations. These snacks are not just about taste; they are steeped in tradition, history, and local influences. Whether it’s the crunchy farsan of Gujarat, the fiery Mirchi Bajji of Andhra Pradesh, or the tangy street food of Mumbai, each bite tells a story of India’s rich gastronomic heritage.
At Omkar Snacks, we celebrate the authenticity of India’s traditional savoury snacks while ensuring premium quality, freshness, and health-conscious choices. Our innovative 3-layered foil packaging with a super ziplock preserves the original flavours without the need for preservatives. Plus, we use 50% less oil compared to standard market practices, making indulgence guilt-free.
Let’s take a tour of India’s must-try regional snacks and discover what makes each of them special!
1. Pani Puri (Maharashtra, North India)
A quintessential street food, Pani Puri is a crispy, hollow puri filled with spiced mashed potatoes, tangy tamarind water, and flavoured mint water. Known as Golgappa in North India and Puchka in West Bengal, this snack delivers an explosion of spicy, sour, and savoury goodness in every bite. The experience of eating Pani Puri is just as delightful as its taste—standing around a street vendor, eagerly awaiting the next puri while savouring the perfect balance of flavours.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A flavourful combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements
- A social snack enjoyed with family and friends
- Customisable to suit different spice preferences
2. Dhokla (Gujarat)
Soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy, Dhokla is a steamed savoury cake made from fermented chickpea flour and rice flour. A staple in Gujarati households, it is seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, then served with spicy green chutney.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- Light and nutritious with a perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours
- High in protein and easy to digest
- A healthy alternative to deep-fried snacks
3. Pyaaz Kachori (Rajasthan)
Hailing from Rajasthan, Pyaaz Kachori is a deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy onion mixture flavoured with fennel seeds, coriander, and green chilies. This flaky and crispy delicacy is best enjoyed with tamarind chutney and a steaming cup of masala chai.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A flavour-packed snack that perfectly complements tea-time
- A filling and indulgent savoury delight
- A true representation of Rajasthan’s bold spice culture
4. Kathi Roll (West Bengal)
Originating from the bustling streets of Kolkata, the Kathi Roll is a flaky paratha wrapped around a filling of spiced meat or paneer, onions, and tangy sauces. This snack is known for its convenience and rich, smoky flavours.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A fusion of Mughlai and Bengali flavours
- A delicious grab-and-go snack
- Easily customisable with different fillings and sauces
5. Mirchi Bajji (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana)
For spice lovers, Mirchi Bajji is an unmissable treat! Large green chilies are stuffed with a flavourful masala, dipped in gram flour batter, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. Served with coconut or peanut chutney, this snack is a fiery delight.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A bold, spicy snack for those who love heat
- A crunchy, satisfying texture with a burst of flavours
- A popular snack during monsoons
6. Murukku (Tamil Nadu, South India)
Murukku is a crunchy, spiral-shaped snack made from rice flour and urad dal. Popular across South India, it is seasoned with sesame seeds and ajwain, making it an addictive tea-time treat.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- Light, crispy, and flavourful
- A festival favourite, especially during Diwali
- Pairs perfectly with coffee or tea
7. Jhalmuri (West Bengal, East India)
A light yet flavourful snack, Jhalmuri is made with puffed rice, mustard oil, peanuts, and an assortment of spices. It is a popular street food in Kolkata known for its spicy and tangy mix.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A low-fat, high-flavour street food option
- Quick to prepare and highly customisable
- A perfect balance of crunch, spice, and tang
8. Banana Chips (Kerala)
One of Kerala’s most famous snacks, Banana Chips are thinly sliced raw bananas deep-fried in coconut oil. These chips are lightly salted and incredibly crunchy.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- Unique, natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch
- A traditional and healthy alternative to potato chips
- Rich in potassium and fibre
9. Chakli (Maharashtra, Karnataka)
A spiced, deep-fried spiral snack made from rice flour, besan, and sesame seeds, Chakli is a popular festive treat prepared during Diwali.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- A crunchy snack with rich, nutty flavours
- Perfect for long-term storage without losing freshness
- Pairs excellently with tea or coffee
Indian regional snacks showcase the country’s incredible diversity, with each bite offering a glimpse into its rich culinary heritage. Whether you crave something spicy, crunchy, or savoury, there’s a snack for every palate.
At Omkar Snacks, we bring you the finest traditional Indian savoury snacks, crafted with care, free from preservatives, and made with 50% less oil than standard market offerings.
Which of these regional snacks is your favourite? Let us know in the comments!
