Craving Indian appetizers but want to skip the oil? You're in the right place! Many people think Indian snacks are always deep-fried, but that’s not true. There are plenty of easy Indian starters that are tasty, healthy, and don’t need deep frying.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite simple Indian appetizers without deep frying. These recipes are quick, full of flavor, and perfect for parties or snacks. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Non-Fried Indian Appetizers?
Deep-fried snacks like samosas and pakoras are delicious, but they can be heavy. Choosing healthy Indian appetizers has many benefits:
Lighter on the stomach – No oily after-feeling!
Better for health – Less fat, more nutrients.
Quick to make – Many need just 10-15 minutes.
Great for all ages – Kids and adults love them.
Now, let’s explore some tasty Indian starters without deep frying!
1. Cucumber Mint Chaat – A Refreshing Starter
A Cool & Tangy Indian Appetizer Without Frying
This chaat is crunchy, fresh, and super easy. It’s one of my go-to quick Indian snacks for summer.
Ingredients:
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1 cucumber (chopped)
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½ cup yogurt
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1 tsp chaat masala
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½ tsp roasted cumin powder
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Fresh mint leaves
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Pomegranate seeds (optional)
How to Make:
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Mix yogurt with chaat masala and cumin.
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Add cucumber and mint.
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Top with pomegranate.
Why I Love It: It’s light, hydrating, and full of flavor—perfect before a meal!
2. Sprouted Moong Salad – Protein-Packed Bite
Healthy Indian Appetizer with No Oil
Moong sprouts are a nutritious Indian snack that’s great for digestion.
Ingredients:
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1 cup sprouted moong
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½ onion (chopped)
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1 tomato (chopped)
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½ lemon juice
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Salt & pepper
How to Make:
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Mix all ingredients.
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Squeeze lemon on top.
Expert Tip: "Sprouts are rich in protein and fiber, making them a great healthy starter." – Nutritionist Priya K.
3. Dhokla – Steamed & Fluffy Gujarati Snack
A Classic Indian Steamed Appetizer
Dhokla is a soft, spongy snack from Gujarat. It’s steamed, so no oil is needed!
Ingredients:
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1 cup besan (gram flour)
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1 tsp fruit salt (eno)
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½ tsp turmeric
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1 green chili (chopped)
How to Make:
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Mix besan, turmeric, and water.
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Add fruit salt and steam for 15 mins.
Serving Idea: Garnish with mustard seeds and coriander.
4. Fruit Chaat – Sweet & Spicy Mix
A No-Cook Indian Starter
This fruit chaat is my favorite quick party snack.
Ingredients:
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Apple, banana, orange (chopped)
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Chaat masala
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Lemon juice
How to Make:
Just mix everything!
Why It Works: Sweet, tangy, and ready in 5 minutes!
5. Paneer Tikka – Grilled & Flavorful
A High-Protein Indian Starter Without Frying
Paneer tikka is a grilled Indian appetizer that’s smoky and delicious.
Ingredients:
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200g paneer (cubed)
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1 capsicum (sliced)
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2 tbsp yogurt
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1 tsp tandoori masala
How to Make:
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Marinate paneer in yogurt and spices.
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Grill or bake for 10 mins.
Pro Tip: Serve with mint chutney for extra taste!
6. Masala Peanuts – Oven-Roasted Crunch
A Crispy Indian Snack Without Deep Frying
Love crunchy snacks? Try oven-roasted masala peanuts!
Ingredients:
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1 cup peanuts
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1 tsp chili powder
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½ tsp garlic powder
How to Make:
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Toss peanuts with spices.
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Bake at 180°C for 10 mins.
Why Choose This: Way healthier than fried peanuts!
7. Beetroot Cutlets – Colorful & Tasty
A Baked Indian Appetizer
These cutlets are crispy outside, soft inside—and baked!
Ingredients:
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1 beetroot (grated)
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2 potatoes (boiled)
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1 tsp garam masala
How to Make:
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Mix all ingredients.
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Shape into cutlets and bake.
Serving Tip: Great with green chutney!
FAQs – Simple Indian Appetizers Without Deep Frying
Q: Can I make Indian snacks without oil?
A: Yes! Try steaming, baking, or using fresh ingredients.
Q: What’s the healthiest Indian appetizer?
A: Sprouted moong salad or cucumber chaat are great choices.
Q: Are these snacks good for weight loss?
A: Yes, they’re low-calorie and filling!
Final Thoughts
You don’t need deep-frying to enjoy Indian appetizers. From dhokla to paneer tikka, these simple Indian appetizers without deep frying are tasty and healthy.
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