The pleasant crunch of a samosa or the syrupy goodness of a jalebi can simply make any cup of night chai really feel like a celebration. These traditional Indian snacks have a manner of bringing consolation and nostalgia. Nevertheless, behind their tasty facade typically lurks a well being concern. A medium samosa can pack in about 300–350 energy, whereas a single jalebi usually comprises between 150 and 200 energy, primarily resulting from its refined flour and sugar content material. So, what if we may nonetheless take pleasure in our chai with out the added guilt?
There are many conventional Indian snacks that aren’t solely lighter on the waistline but additionally full of flavour. Listed below are 5 scrumptious choices beneficial by diet knowledgeable Ginni Kalra.
Roasted chana
- Energy (30g): 100 kcal
- Roasted chana is a pleasant snack that boasts a satisfying crunch with out the necessity for frying. Wealthy in protein and dietary fibre, it’s a wonderful possibility for if you’re feeling peckish.
- Vitamin Perception: “It’s a easy, no-fuss snack that helps power ranges and retains blood sugar secure,” explains Kalra, who heads Dietetics at Aakash Healthcare. With no maida (refined flour) or trans fat concerned, you may take pleasure in roasted chana guilt-free!
Vegetable upma
- Energy (1 cup): 250-300 kcal
- Upma, constituted of rava (semolina) and quite a lot of seasonal greens, is a comforting possibility that fills you up with out the grease of deep-fried favourites. It’s good for these chilly evenings!
- Vitamin Perception: In line with the dietitian, “In comparison with fried snacks, upma retains you full longer and doesn’t spike your sugar.” This makes it a more healthy possibility whereas nonetheless being hearty and satisfying, as per the UK’s Nationwide Institute of Well being.

Poha with greens
- Energy (40g + veggies 100g): 250 kcal
- Poha, made with a minimal quantity of oil and loaded with greens, provides a balanced meal that mixes carbohydrates, iron, and fibre. Not solely is it mild, but it surely’s additionally non-greasy, making it a more healthy various to fried snacks.
- Vitamin Perception: Dietitian Ginni Kalra mentions, “Poha is usually ignored, but it surely’s a healthful meal that matches completely with tea.” Its nourishing substances might help you’re feeling full with out weighing you down.
Roasted makhana
- Energy (1 cup): 150 kcal
- Makhana, also referred to as fox nuts, is a wonderful low-calorie snack wealthy in calcium and antioxidants. Whenever you need one thing to munch on with out the guilt, makhana is your go-to meals.
- Vitamin Perception: “Makhanas are filling, crunchy, and received’t trigger a sugar crash like jalebi does,” the dietitian provides. Somewhat pinch of ghee and spices can considerably improve its flavour with out compromising its well being advantages.
Sprouts chaat
- Energy (1 bowl): 250-300 kcal
- If you happen to’re craving one thing tangy and refreshing, look no additional than sprouts chaat! This nutritious dish usually incorporates sprouted moong, lemon, onions, and coriander, making it a flavorful possibility.
- Vitamin Perception: “It’s street-food-inspired however health-forward,” notes the dietitian. Full of protein and fibre, sprouts chaat isn’t solely scrumptious but additionally retains you feeling glad longer.
Conventional Indian snacks needn’t be laden with guilt. Whereas samosas and jalebis have their attraction, they weren’t supposed for every day consumption. Swapping them out for do-it-yourself, roasted, or frivolously sautéed snacks can result in vital well being advantages. With a little bit of creativity and the fitting substances, your tea-time snacks will be each indulgent and nutritious.
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