8 Hidden Indian Snacks You’ve Never Heard Of But Must Try!

India is a land of incredible diversity—culturally, geographically, and especially in its food. Every state, every village offers a unique dish that reflects its heritage. While snacks like Samosa, Pakodas, and Pani Puri are household names, there’s a world of lesser-known Indian snacks that remain hidden gems. These dishes not only delight your taste buds but also tell the story of the regions they come from.

Let’s take a flavorful journey through 8 rare and regional Indian snacks you may have never heard of—but definitely need to try!

1. Bhang ki Chutney with Singodi – Uttarakhand’s Flavor Fusion

Straight from the hills of Uttarakhand, Bhang ki Chutney is made with roasted hemp seeds, cumin, garlic, and lemon juice. Tangy and mildly spicy, it’s a burst of earthy flavors. Pair it with Singodi, a sweet treat made from khoya and coconut wrapped in malu leaves, and you get an unforgettable sweet-salty combination. This duo is rare to find outside the mountains, making it a must-try local delicacy.

2. Sabudana Thalipeeth – Maharashtra’s Fasting Favorite

This lesser-known snack from Maharashtra is a treat during fasting days. Made with sago (sabudana), boiled potatoes, crushed peanuts, and spices, Sabudana Thalipeeth is shaped into flat discs and crisped on a hot pan. It’s light, nutritious, and usually served with curd or green chutney. The nutty aroma and soft bite make it a satisfying breakfast or snack option.

3. Alle Belle – Goa’s Sweet Coconut Pancake

A Goan gem, Alle Belle is a soft pancake filled with grated coconut and jaggery, delicately flavored with cardamom. Traditionally prepared during festivals like Shigmo and Carnival, it’s enjoyed with evening tea. This snack reflects Goa’s coastal charm and cultural sweetness in every bite.

4. Arisa Pitha – Odisha’s Sweet Heritage in a Bite

Prepared during festivals like Raja Parva and Kartik Purnima, Arisa Pitha is a sweet, deep-fried rice cake from Odisha. It’s made with rice flour, jaggery, and sesame seeds. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside remains soft and mildly sweet. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a cultural symbol of Odisha’s traditional festive feasts.

5. Bhakarwadi – Maharashtra’s Spiral Snack

Crunchy, spicy, and slightly sweet, Bhakarwadi is a classic snack from Maharashtra. Rolled spirals of gram flour dough are stuffed with a flavorful mix of coconut, sesame, poppy seeds, and spices before being fried to perfection. It stays fresh for days, making it a popular travel snack. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on one of India’s tastiest traditional munchies.

6. Kalmi Vada – Rajasthan’s Crispy Village Snack

Kalmi Vada hails from Rajasthan’s heartlands. Made from soaked urad dal blended with spices, green chilies, and coriander, the mixture is shaped into vadas and deep-fried until golden. These crispy vadas are best enjoyed with chutney or curd. Although packed with flavor, they remain one of Rajasthan’s lesser-known culinary treasures.

7. Muthia – Gujarat’s Healthy Delight

Muthia is a steamed and stir-fried snack from Gujarat that combines health and taste. A mix of gram flour, spices, and grated vegetables like bottle gourd or fenugreek leaves is shaped by hand (hence the name “Muthia,” from “muthi” or fist), steamed, sliced, and then tempered with mustard seeds, sesame, and curry leaves. It’s a light, flavorful dish that represents the essence of Gujarati home cooking.

8. Chak-Hao Kheer with Kabok – Manipur’s Royal Treat

From the northeast, Manipur brings you Chak-Hao Kheer—a pudding made with black rice that turns a rich purple when cooked. Infused with cardamom and dry fruits, this creamy kheer has a unique nutty flavor. It’s paired with Kabok, a crunchy puffed rice snack, creating a delicious contrast of textures. Both elements are rich in heritage and health.

Conclusion

India’s food culture is as diverse as its languages and landscapes. These hidden snacks not only offer a new burst of flavors but also help you connect with the regional roots of the country. So next time you crave something different, step beyond the familiar and savor these hidden gems of Indian cuisine.