namkeen

Namkeen is a broad category of savory snacks widely consumed in India and among the Indian diaspora. The word, derived from the Hindi term for saltiness, refers to salty, spiced, and often fried or roasted snacks that are enjoyed as tea-time accompaniments or quick bites.

Most namkeen items are made from flour-based doughs such as chickpea (gram) flour or lentil flours, which are formed into shapes and fried until crisp. Common components include sev (thin fried noodles), bhujia (crisp curved strands), chivda (thin flakes or chips), and various mixtures that combine fried lentils, nuts, puffed rice, and spices. Flavorings typically feature chili, cumin, coriander, ajwain, turmeric, and salt, sometimes with dried mango powder or asafoetida for additional aroma. Some varieties also incorporate potatoes, peanuts, cashews, or other nuts.

Prominent examples of namkeen include sev, bhujia, chivda, and an array of mixed namkeen products sold in packets. In Gujarat and parts of western India, the term farsan is often used for a subset of namkeen that is especially snack-like and festive, though both terms appear in everyday markets.

Namkeen is generally high in salt and fat but is available in packaged form for long shelf life and in homemade versions with varying oil usage. It holds a significant place in Indian snacking culture and is widely exported to countries with Indian communities.