​From Pretzels to Potato sticks: 10 Global 'Namkeens' that Indians need to try​

From Namkeens to Namak Paras to homestyle wafers, Indians and their love for snacks is beyond words and this why snacking and munching is an inseparable part of our lives. From satiating hunger to making conversations interesting, Indians love munching! But do you know that there are several delicacies across the world that are no less than our desi namkeens, and this is why they truly deserve a try. Here are some must-try comforting munchies from all around the world.

This baked snack hails from Germany, these Pretzels are twisted baked bread snacks that have a nice chewy texture and a salty crust. These Pretzels are traditionally sprinkled with coarse salt and are a perfect mix of taste and texture. Often enjoyed as a side dish with drinks like beer, and can be added to the list of namkeen for people who love to try something new.

Love for potatoes is universal, and so is the demand for munchies and snacks made with potatoes. From Potato sticks to wafers, potatoes are loved worldwide. But this one snack is popular in many western countries. These potato sticks are thin, deep-fried potato slivers crisped to a crunchy finish, similar to our desi snacks like Aloo Bhujia, but what makes it different is its simple seasoning. In fact, these are also paired with burgers or enjoyed as a snack or toppings for salads.

This unique Korean snack is made with thin sheets of seaweed roasted and lightly salted, which gives this dish a crispy, umami-rich flavour. Although seaweed is uncommon in Indian snacks, gim’s light texture and salty, almost smoky taste makes it a healthy alternative to Indian munchies.

Cheese is again a universal favourite, and so are Cheese balls! These puffed corn snacks are made with cheesy flavor and crisp texture, which can replace desi namkeens with their unique taste and texture,

Chicharrones are fried pork rinds or cracklings known for their airy crunch and salty, smoky flavors. While meat-based, vegetarian versions made from chickpeas or soy exist and provide a crunchy, protein-packed snack for Indian food lovers who love fiery flavors.

Another interesting yet delightful snack is Senbei, which is a classic traditional Japanese rice cracker. This Senbei is often baked or grilled with soy sauce glazing for a salty and umami flavor. There are several versions of this snack, which is available in various shapes and textures such as crispy or chewy.

Sambousek are savory fried pastries with fillings like spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables. Though more of a snack than namkeen, their flaky, crunchy exterior and spicy fillings are very similar to our desi Samosas and Kachoris.

Chips are an all time favourite, when it comes to munching and what can be better than gorging on thin pita chips coated with zaatar spice blend, which includes thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt, which gives it a fragrant and crunchy twist. These chips have a bold herby and tangy flavour unfamiliar in Indian namkeens, but is highly palatable for people who are willing to try out new snacks.

Taralli are ring-shaped crackers flavored with fennel, black pepper, or chili flakes, baked until crunchy. Their mildly spiced, herby, and comforting taste bears resemblance to mathris but with Mediterranean nuances ideal for Indian consumers seeking novel herb-infused snacks.

Loved for their crispy texture, these crackers are made from puffed rice and often flavored with soy or chili. Thai rice crackers share textural similarities with Indian murmura but are denser and saucier.