15 Irresistible Indian Snack Recipes That Make the Perfect Dinner Spread
Some nights just call for something a little more exciting than your usual dinner rotation, and that’s where Indian snacks come in.
Whether you’re craving something crispy, spicy, tangy, or comforting—there’s a little something for everyone on this list. I love putting together an Indian snack-style dinner when I want variety on the table without going all out on a full thali. Think of it like tapas night, but make it desi.
From iconic street food staples like samosas and pani puri to homestyle favorites like aloo tikki and besan chilla, these recipes are easy to pull together and big on flavor.
Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a chill night with your favorite series, these snack recipes are here to turn your dinner into something special.
Why You’ll Love These Recipes
- Packed with flavor: Indian snacks bring bold spices, herbs, and textures to every bite.
- Great for sharing: Perfect for a snack platter or an informal dinner spread.
- Customizable: Many of these can be made spicier, healthier, or even gluten-free.
- Quick and easy: Several options are ready in under 30 minutes.
Indian Snack Recipes for Dinner
Samosa
Golden, crispy pastry stuffed with a flavorful spiced potato filling—an absolute classic and always a hit.
Prep Time: 15 Minutes | Cooking Time: 45 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Peas, Cumin Seeds, Garam Masala, Flour
See Recipe Here
Pakora (Bhaji)
Crispy vegetable fritters made with spiced gram flour—perfect with a cup of chai or some green chutney.
Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cooking Time: 20 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Onions, Spinach, Chickpea Flour, Spices
See Recipe Here
Aloo Tikki
Pan-fried potato patties that are crispy on the outside and soft inside, often served with chutneys or yogurt.
Prep Time: 15 Minutes | Cooking Time: 20 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Green Peas, Ginger, Spices, Corn Flour
See Recipe Here
Bhel Puri
A crunchy, tangy, no-cook snack made with puffed rice, chutneys, and chopped veggies—fresh and vibrant.
Prep Time: 15 Minutes | Cooking Time: 0 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Puffed Rice, Onions, Tomatoes, Chutneys, Sev
See Recipe Here
Pani Puri / Golgappa / Puchka
Hollow crispy shells filled with spicy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas—a street food favorite.
Prep Time: 25 Minutes | Cooking Time: 0 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Semolina Shells, Tamarind Water, Potatoes, Black Chickpeas
See Recipe Here
Dhokla
A soft, spongy savory cake made from fermented gram flour, steamed to perfection and tempered with mustard seeds.
Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cooking Time: 25 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Gram Flour, Lemon Juice, Eno, Ginger-Green Chili Paste
See Recipe Here
Vada Pav
The Indian answer to the burger—deep-fried spiced potato patties tucked into buns and slathered with chutney.
Prep Time: 20 Minutes | Cooking Time: 25 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Garlic, Mustard Seeds, Pav Buns, Green & Red Chutneys
See Recipe Here
Chole Bhature
Hearty and indulgent—this combo of fluffy fried bread and spicy chickpea curry is pure comfort food.
Prep Time: 20 Minutes | Cooking Time: 45 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Tomatoes, Onions, Flour, Yogurt, Spices
See Recipe Here
Masala Papad
A super quick, crunchy starter made by topping roasted papad with a mix of spicy, tangy chopped veggies.
Prep Time: 5 Minutes | Cooking Time: 5 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Papad, Onions, Tomatoes, Green Chilies, Chaat Masala
See Recipe Here
Kachori
Flaky, deep-fried pastry pockets filled with spiced lentils—crunchy, savory, and completely satisfying.
Prep Time: 20 Minutes | Cooking Time: 45 Minutes | Main Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour, Urad Dal, Fennel, Spices
See Recipe Here
Idli Fry / Masala Idli
A smart way to use leftover idlis—pan-fried with spices and veggies for a crispy, spicy makeover.
Prep Time: 5 Minutes | Cooking Time: 15 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Idlis, Mustard Seeds, Curry Leaves, Onion, Spices
See Recipe Here
Sabudana Vada
Crisp on the outside and soft inside, these vadas are made with tapioca pearls and peanuts—perfect for fasting or not.
Prep Time: 20 Minutes | Cooking Time: 25 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls), Potatoes, Peanuts, Green Chilies
See Recipe Here
Corn Chaat
A quick and colorful snack made with sweet corn, onions, and chaat masala—fresh, tangy, and super snackable.
Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cooking Time: 10 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Sweet Corn, Onions, Tomatoes, Chaat Masala, Lemon Juice
See Recipe Here
Momos
Soft steamed dumplings filled with savory veggie stuffing—serve with spicy chutney for the full experience.
Prep Time: 25 Minutes | Cooking Time: 20 Minutes | Main Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour, Cabbage, Carrot, Ginger, Soy Sauce
See Recipe Here
Besan Chilla
A savory pancake made with spiced gram flour—wholesome, protein-rich, and ready in minutes.
Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cooking Time: 15 Minutes | Main Ingredients: Besan (Gram Flour), Onions, Tomatoes, Green Chilies, Spices
See Recipe Here
Ready to turn your dinner into a colorful, spicy, crispy feast? Pick a few of these and mix-and-match for the perfect Indian snack night. Let me know which ones you end up making—I always love hearing about what hits the spot!
