In India, the term "salty foods" predominantly refers to a vast array of savory snacks known as Namkeen (or Namkin), a word likely derived from Namak, meaning salt in Hindi.
Exploring India's Diverse Salty Snacks
Namkeen encompasses a wide variety of crispy, often fried, and spiced snacks that are enjoyed throughout the day across Indian households. This versatile category includes popular items that go by different names depending on the region.
Key Types and Regional Names of Salty Snacks
While Namkeen is the overarching term, specific preparations are known by various names in different parts of India. Here are some prominent examples of these popular salty foods:
| Name/Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Namkeen | The general term for savory or salty snacks across India. |
| Khaara | Often used in parts of South India to refer to various salty and crunchy snacks. |
| Farsan | A collective term for a wide range of savory snacks, particularly popular in Western India (e.g., Gujarat and Maharashtra). |
| Chevda | A popular mix typically made with flattened rice, nuts, and spices. |
| Sev | Thin, crispy, noodle-like strands made from gram flour, often a core component of other mixtures. |
| Chips | Thinly sliced and fried potato or vegetable wafers, a ubiquitous salty snack. |
| Bhajiya | Deep-fried fritters made from vegetables or paneer dipped in a spiced gram flour batter, also known as Pakora. |
| Mixture | A blend of various namkeen ingredients, such as sev, fried lentils, nuts, and spices. |
The craftsmanship of Namkeen is celebrated in various parts of the country, with the Namkeen from Indore and Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh being particularly renowned for its exceptional taste and variety.
