5 Indian Appetizers that Everyone Should Try

India stands out for many of its unique characteristics like clothing, holidays, and of course, the food. Indian cuisine can be found in restaurants all around the world, so are here five must-have appetizers to try next time you enjoy the taste of India.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SpotLifeASIA.

1. Samosa
Starting off strong, samosas are a staple appetizer that many people have heard of. It is a triangular fried pastry generally with a potato filling with other ingredients that can vary between onions, peas, and peanuts. It can also have certain meats in it as well like chicken. It is best served with mint chutney and tamarind sauce.

2. Pani Puri
This is a popular street food that can also double as a fun appetizer. Pani puri stands by its very literal name. It is a hollowed out thin fried dough (puri) that is stuffed with either boiled and/or mashed potatoes and different spices. The stuffed puri is then dipped in a typically spicy and minty flavored water (pani) and then quickly eaten before the puri gets soggy. The different textures between the hard puri, soft potatoes, and the water combined with the flavors is a masterpiece of a food item.

3. Chaat
There are different types of chaat that can be made, but most simply at its core it is a mixture of potato pieces, chickpeas, crispy fried dough pieces, a combination of different spices, yogurt, and different sauces. Think of it like a salad, but with ample flavor. There is a lot of room to be creative with this dish, so each restaurant has their own spin. It is easy to also make it towards your own liking when making this at home.

4. Gobi Manchurian
This is a tasty Indo-Chinese appetizer that can be on the spicier side. It is comprised of cauliflower that is caked in batter and then fried. It is then dipped in Manchurian hot sauce and sprinkled with some spring onions. However, it can also be made mild if anyone prefers it that way.

5. Vegetable Pakora
These appetizers are not only delicious, but are also source of fiber with chickpea flour that is used. The flour coats vegetables like potatoes, onions, cabbage, peppers, and chilis which are then fried. Different spices can be added to add an extra splash of flavor. This is also served with different sauces such as mint chutney or tamarind sauce.

Some honorable mentions include paneer puffs, dahi vada, padadum, and aloo tikki.

You may also like The Delicious and Iconic Samosa: A Global Favorite