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10 Best Namkeen in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Chef

India has a huge appetite for snacks, and they are referred to as Namkeen. Munching with gulping has been an old practice in India. Namkeen is baked to golden perfection, and beverages are never sipped without them, especially chai. When unannounced hunger pings, then this can be your ready-to-go snack. From the most usual ingredients like salt to the most unusual ones like methi (fenugreek), namkeen have all of them. 


There are more than 300 types of flavours, so which ones to choose? We will discuss the types of namkeen ranging from single type like bhujia to mix type like navratan mix and also the flavours like simple salty to extreme ones like achari. In the end, we will give you our top 10 recommendations of the best namkeen you can buy in India, with the comments from our expert, Chef Edwin Jones.

Last updated 07/14/2023
Edwin Jones
Expert
Chef
Edwin Jones

Edwin is a chef specializing in the field of bakery. He's got his training from a 5-star hotel in Mussoorie, Jaypee Residency Manor. Currently, Edwin is pursuing a master's in international hotel & tourism management.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Namkeen in India - Buying Guide

So below here we have identified a few parameters which will change your perspective while buying these mini crunchy bites. Namkeen are not only known for their taste but also ingredients, types, flavours, shapes, combos, and more.  So, check the details to buy the best namkeen. 

① Enhance Your Munching Experience With a Variety of Flavours

Enhance Your Munching Experience With a Variety of Flavours

Whether you like it crispy or chewy, hot or mild, savory or tangy, and many more, these namkeens can create extremely yummy flavours. Irrespective of the age, simple flavours have a plain taste and are liked by most. It is rightly said that tea time must be complemented with some gossip and namkeen. Aloo bhujia and moong dal fit well because of their simple yet delicious taste.


While watching a movie or when home partying with friends, then the mood calls for flavours that are a little tangy, a little spicy, a little achari, or even a combination of all of them. If you feel like pushing the boundaries, you can go for extreme flavours like achari mathi and garlic peanuts, they will have a strong taste of achaar or spiced garlic, which will stick to your mouth.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

There are a variety of namkeen's that can differ in texture, flavor, and level of spiciness from bland, mild, and hot. It can also be enhanced according to one's taste buds, for example, take peanuts, mix namkeen, tomatoes & onions (chopped), cilantro and lime juice, salt & pepper, and mix them to create a new flavor. 

② Grab Some Crunchy and Spicy Namkeen to Pair With Your Alcohol

Grab Some Crunchy and Spicy Namkeen to Pair With Your Alcohol

While gulping down alcohol most of us in India need those side snacks but not everyone has the time to make dishes like paneer tikka, chicken tikka, or kebabs. So many people resort to grabbing namkeens as they go well with chakna which is the art of eating with drinking alcohol. 


Certain Namkeens have the aptest flavours during these occasions. One can look for namkeens like chickpeas lemon achari, karare peanuts, or chatpata mix as they are crunchy and spicy, so, they are a perfect combo with alcohol. 

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

Namkeen is a very light snack that pairs great with alcohol like whiskey, scotch or beer, etc. A salted namkeen will give a good compliment to any type of beer, for example, lager or wheat beer. A spicy namkeen chaat suits well with the alcoholic beverage and also act as a palate cleanser.

③ Check the Type of Namkeen That Best Satisfies You

Namkeens vary from a single pattern like aloo bhujia, also called one flavoured namkeen, to a mixture of several different types like bombay mix. Depending on your preference, you can decide which taste satisfies you the most.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

As India is a diverse country, full of cultures, similarly, namkeen is also very diversified. One can choose from various types of namkeen available in different states of India, for example, In the northern region like aloo bhujia, moong dal, navartan mix. The western region: khakra, methi puri, sev masala, etc. In the southern region: kara sev, murruku, or banana chips.  

Specialty Namkeens Are for Those Who Want a Particular Taste

Specialty Namkeens Are for Those Who Want a Particular Taste

Specialty namkeens are also called single segment namkeens and they give you one specific taste. These types of namkeens are of the same size, shape, and colour and the best example for that would be bhujia. It depends what kind of bhujia one wants to buy because there are many flavours but if you buy aloo bhujia then, you will specifically experience fried potato with salt. 

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

A specialty namkeen is a type that consists of only one main ingredient but can be available in different flavours if anyone wants a particular taste. For example, peanuts are available in different flavors like salted peanuts, karare peanuts, garlic flavoured peanuts, mint flavoured peanuts, hing flavoured, etc.

To Experience Variety of Ingredients, Try Mix Namkeen

To Experience Variety of Ingredients, Try Mix Namkeen

Mixed namkeens are the combination of many namkeens and mixtures of kaju, badam, aloo bhujia, matri, daal are commonly seen and with each bite, they give you different taste. Unlike specialty namkeens, they are different in size, shape, and colour.


By purchasing a single pack of namkeen like navratan mixture, one can experience multiple flavours of dhania, garam masala, pepper, red chilli, spinach leaves, heeng, and many more.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

One can never get bored from eating mix namkeen because it contains different types of ingredients. It is a combination of different namkeens mixed together, which are different in size, texture, and flavour. 


For example, navratan mix, Kashmiri mix, Gujrati mix, etc. A mixed namkeen may contain rice flakes, peanuts, raisins, cashew, cucumber seed, fennel seed, dried ginger powder, clove powder, salt, black pepper, etc. other ingredients.

④ People Aiming for Nutritious Namkeen Can Avoid Some Ingredients

People Aiming for Nutritious Namkeen Can Avoid Some Ingredients

Today more and more people are shifting to healthier options because of increasing adulteration in the market food. Either food or snack available in the market is healthy or it can be tasty but a combination of healthy yet tasty is hard to see. 


Mindful eating if combined with tadakta-fadakta taste can end up being a very cool combination and our product recommendation list has many such combinations. Before buying, one can avoid substances like, synthetic colours, maltodextrin (used as a thickening agent), hydrogenated oils, chemical-based flavours, and flavour enhancers.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

There are many namkeen options that are made from healthy ingredients that are rich in nutrients, such as corn, soybean, rice flour, gram flour, urad dal, etc. These types of namkeen are truly light and contain very few calories compared to other types of namkeen. Some of the namkeens are also available as oil-free snacks, which are usually baked.

⑤ Vegetarians, Vegans, and Brahmins/Pandits, Be Cautious of Your Dietary Restrictions

Vegetarians, Vegans, and Brahmins/Pandits, Be Cautious of Your Dietary Restrictions

Namkeen has a lot of ingredients, some of them might not be appropriate for your body. People who are suffering from high cholesterol can choose namkeens without trans-fat. 30% of India’s population is vegetarian, so one might want to look for absolute-vegetarian options.


As some namkeens might have traces of dairy products or even eggs, so vegans can refer to the ingredients list at the back. Although, companies today are considering all these options so vegan namkeens are increasing. There are namkeens which might have onion and garlic so, Brahmins, Pandits, and others who avoid onion and garlic can make sure before buying.


Many companies like Haldiram, Bhikharam Chandmal, Bikano, eatAnytime, and others are trying to consider all the above mentioned dietary restrictions and today the market has much more to offer than yesterday. So, be rest assured and try the new flavours and combinations of these munchies.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

People who are looking for vegetarian or vegan options, there are namkeens available in the market which are protein-rich, gluten-free, oil-free, and vegan. They are made from ingredients like roasted corn, channa, green peas, bajra, and jowar, etc.

⑥ People Allergic to Certain Ingredients Can Choose More Wisely

People Allergic to Certain Ingredients Can Choose More Wisely

Some people are allergic or intolerant to a few substances. Gluten, which is a mixture of proteins present in grains can be an intolerant substance to some people, look out for gluten-free namkeens. Similarly, people with wheat, soy, and peanut allergies should avoid mix namkeens because they often have these ingredients.


Some people are allergic to dairy products because they can’t fully digest the sugar called lactose in the milk, but don’t worry even if you’re lactose intolerant, there are some companies like Ketofy who are paying attention to such allergies and now many options are available in the market.

Edwin Jones
ChefEdwin Jones

People allergic to certain ingredients can choose from different options available - gluten-free, nut-free, soy, or wheat-free. There are namkeen available in the market that are made from rice flour, corn, urad dal, roasted channa, etc.

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10 Best Namkeen in India

We would like to elevate a little more by this top 10 list to get you your desired namkeen.
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

EAT Anytime

Nut Mix, Cranberry and Orange Zest

EAT Anytime Nut Mix, Cranberry and Orange Zest 1枚目

Address Your Cravings While Still Eating Healthily

2

Bikano

Moong Dal Plain

Bikano Moong Dal Plain 1枚目

The Namkeen With Great Value for Money

3

Bhikharam Chandmal

Navratan Mixture

Bhikharam Chandmal Navratan Mixture 1枚目

Exciting Times Call for This Gluten-Free Spicy Scrumptious Namkeen

4

Ketofy

Achaari Keto Matthi

Ketofy Achaari Keto Matthi 1枚目

Pickling Spices Which Comes With a Keto Diet / a Carb Care Taker

5

Indiana

Roasted Chana

Indiana Roasted Chana 1枚目

An Affordable, Healthy, Organic and Light Snack

6

Bikaji Aslee Bikaneri

Spicy Coated Nut Cracker

Bikaji Aslee Bikaneri Spicy Coated Nut Cracker 1枚目

Lovely, Spicy Snack Suitable for People With Cholesterol Issues Also

7

Neelam Foodland

Roasted Makhana

Neelam Foodland Roasted Makhana 1枚目

Perfect Snack During Navratri or Fasting Flavoured With Black Salt

8

Roastway Foods

Roasted Peanut Chilli Garlic

Roastway Foods Roasted Peanut Chilli Garlic 1枚目

A Luxurious Pack of Roasted Peanut Chilli Garlic

9

Haldiram's

Aloo Bhujia

Haldiram's Aloo Bhujia 1枚目

This Namkeen Is Extremely Loyal to Indian Taste Buds

10

Bhikharam Chandmal

Bombay Mixture

Bhikharam Chandmal Bombay Mixture 1枚目

An Upgraded Version of Chiwda With Many Dried Ingredients

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No.1

EAT AnytimeNut Mix, Cranberry and Orange Zest

Nut Mix, Cranberry and Orange Zest Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹333.00

Address Your Cravings While Still Eating Healthily

This Nut Mix from eat Anytime just fulfils all your desires, people who are crazy about eating healthy yet tasty just got lucky. Ingredients like pumpkin seeds, dried coconut, dates, almond and much more just awestruck and because of such healthy ingredients, one can eat a lot without any hesitation.


What’s more, people with some dietary restrictions or allergies can also opt for this mix namkeen because it is kept free from trans-fat, preservatives, cholesterol, refined sugar, and so on.

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No.2

BikanoMoong Dal Plain

Moong Dal Plain Image 1
Reference price
₹99.00

The Namkeen With Great Value for Money

Moong dal which is made from yellow gram is known for its simplicity and versatility. Because of its plain salty flavour, it can be preferred by any age group whether it be children, adults, or the older generation. Also, it can go with anything like chai, cold-drinks, alcohol, or any other hot beverage.


This product has a very nominal price yet it comes with a ziplock, which means you can easily open and reseal it again. It has been top on the list of reviewers and charms everyone with its taste and quality.

No.3

Bhikharam ChandmalNavratan Mixture

Navratan Mixture Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹279.00

Exciting Times Call for This Gluten-Free Spicy Scrumptious Namkeen

One of the most tempting namkeens on the list, as it is made from a mixture of spices. Because of its extreme flavours of black pepper, black salt, dhania, mango powder, and more, this namkeen can turn the party up so people looking for a crunchy-munchy snack to eat with alcohol can buy this.


Also, gluten-free eaters, be rest assured of its taste as it's rare to find such a combination of spicy gluten-free namkeen in the market. People with cholesterol issues can have this namkeen just once a week because it has palm oil which increases the cholesterol. 

No.4

KetofyAchaari Keto Matthi

Achaari Keto Matthi Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹489.00

Pickling Spices Which Comes With a Keto Diet / a Carb Care Taker

Achari keto mathi is one of the rarest combinations of tasty and nutritious namkeens because it is salty, crispy, achari, yet comes with natural ingredients, lactose-free, suitable for diabetics and coeliacs. It's a great opportunity for all those healthy eaters who are struggling to lose weight and can’t give up on their cravings.


This product is designed to be suitable for the keto diet, a low-carb and high-fat diet, that helps to cut extra fat more effectively. Every single mathi this product contains comes with less than 1gram of carbs.


Those looking for a uniquely strong taste which is as tangy as achaar which complements their fat-free diet, without any hesitation can add this namkeen to their cart.

No.5

IndianaRoasted Chana

Roasted Chana Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹160.00

An Affordable, Healthy, Organic and Light Snack

All those mothers, worried about their children’s eating habits can have this as an all-time home snack because this product from Indiana is organic and made from natural ingredients like organic spices, whole flour and salt.


Roasted Chana can also be titled as an “All-Time Favourite” snack because it is high in fibre and loaded with many health benefits. According to Ayurveda experts, roasted chana, if consumed with its outer shell, can provide a fair amount of fibre and protein, so this snack is perfect for weight loss.

No.6

Bikaji Aslee BikaneriSpicy Coated Nut Cracker

Spicy Coated Nut Cracker Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹108.00

Lovely, Spicy Snack Suitable for People With Cholesterol Issues Also

Once in a while we all have that urge to eat some spicy snacks and people with cholesterol usually have to give up in this situation but this nut cracker from Bikaji just fits right. There are no trans-fat or artificial colours and also its cholesterol-free.


Alcohol lovers who love munching teekha while gulping can also add to their chakna list because this namkeen is from Bikaner, Rajasthan which is called the home for namkeens and it is loaded with tons of spices like chilli, black pepper, clove, nutmeg, and many others.

No.7

Neelam FoodlandRoasted Makhana

Roasted Makhana Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹275.00

Perfect Snack During Navratri or Fasting Flavoured With Black Salt

During navratri makhana is the ideal snack to eat because of its health properties, as they are rich in proteins. Makhana also goes along well with other dishes of navratri like makhana kheer or makhana aloo sabzi and many more.


For fasting, a high protein and low carb diet are recommended, so this makhana from Neelam with high protein can be added to the cart. This product is made from black salt, all those people who struggle with bloating or acidity can also enjoy this. 

No.8

Roastway FoodsRoasted Peanut Chilli Garlic

Roasted Peanut Chilli Garlic Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹120.00

A Luxurious Pack of Roasted Peanut Chilli Garlic

It's infused with loads of spiciest ingredients and is an uncommon flavour made by Roastway. A mixture of garlic and chilly with peanuts is a rare and extremely delicious combination. This might not sound like a healthier snack as it's loaded with calories, however, it's fat-free.


This comes with a perfect zip lock, so it's easy to store. If you feel like you want to have something out of the odds, we recommend this namkeen. Because of the chilly flavour, children might want to be more careful while eating this.

No.9

Haldiram'sAloo Bhujia

Aloo Bhujia Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹210.00

This Namkeen Is Extremely Loyal to Indian Taste Buds

You just taste this namkeen and you’ll end up loading the whole bag in your mouth. This namkeen from Haldiram is so versatile that it can be sprinkled over any and everything like raita, salad, toast, curry, omelettes, samosas, and many more.


The product comes with a bigger pack and with an economical price. This has hit the top list from years and years and surely for many more years to come. However, this namkeen may not be suitable for people watching their health because it contains added flavours.

No.10

Bhikharam ChandmalBombay Mixture

Bombay Mixture Image 1
Source:amazon.in
Reference price
₹290.00

An Upgraded Version of Chiwda With Many Dried Ingredients

Here is another product from Bhikharam Chandmal. It has been upgraded for all the dal lovers so it now contains many dried ingredients such as fried lentils, peanuts, chickpea flour, flaked rice, fried onion, and curry leaves.


Although this is a mixed namkeen, you are guaranteed to taste each ingredient’s flavour. However, this should be avoided by people with high blood pressure as it contains a lot of calories and oil.

Storage Hacks for Namkeen

Storage Hacks for Namkeen


Giving namkeen its perfect place can be a task, many struggle to find that area where it can be retained in its original form. People usually tie a rubber band to their namkeen packages but then it loses its flavour and crunchiness. 


If not stored in a cool dry place and packed in an air-tight container then the namkeen tends to become soggy. You can extend the life and maintain the crunchiness of namkeen by keeping it in the refrigerator from the very beginning.

Simple and Easy Peanut Masala Recipe From Our Expert - Edwin Jones

Simple and Easy Peanut Masala Recipe From Our Expert - Edwin Jones

Those who are always on-the-go, check out this easy recipe for peanut masala:


Ingredients:


  • Salted peanuts (200 gm)
  • Onions chopped (100 gm)
  • Tomatoes chopped (100 gm)
  • Aloo bhujia (100 gm)
  • Cilantro chopped
  • Lime juice (20 ml)
  • Salt
  • Chaat masala


Method:


Mix all the ingredients and garnish with cilantro.

You Can Explore More Munchies for Your Kitchen Basket

You Can Explore More Munchies for Your Kitchen Basket

In India when the guests enter, one wishes to flaunt their tray loaded with a variety of snacks. Here, check out some more snacks to add another charm to your tray.

Summary

The creation of this absolute mouth-watering snack is not an easy task. Namkeens can surely get you that eureka moment by the combination of Indian mixed spices. Choosing a namkeen is not that difficult but we might have widened your perspective so that you can consider it more closely. Hope you can find your best namkeen. 


Author: Nikhil Deora

Top 5 Namkeen

No. 1: EAT Anytime | Nut Mix, Cranberry and Orange Zest

No. 2: Bikano | Moong Dal Plain

No. 3: Bhikharam Chandmal | Navratan Mixture

No. 4: Ketofy | Achaari Keto Matthi

No. 5: Indiana | Roasted Chana

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