Origins
Indian snacks under 50 calories have their roots in ancient food traditions where light and nourishing bites were crafted for intermittent eating. These snacks were often made with minimal ingredients and focused on wholesome nutrition.
Regions
Each region in India contributes its unique twist to low-calorie snacks:
- North India: Cucumber slices with chaat masala, and roasted gram.
- South India: Steamed idli (mini), sundal.
- West India: Roasted papad, puffed rice.
- East India: Muri mixture, steamed sprouts.
Ingredients
Key ingredients in these snacks include:
- Vegetables like cucumbers, carrots
- Legumes such as chickpeas and moong dal
- Spices like chaat masala, turmeric, and cumin
- Minimal oil for roasting or steaming
- Light grains like puffed rice and flattened rice
Calories
Here is a breakdown of popular Indian snacks under 50 calories:
| Snack | Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumber slices | 1 cup | 16 |
| Roasted gram | 2 tablespoons | 46 |
| Puffed rice | 1 cup | 50 |
| Mini idli | 1 piece | 40 |
| Sprouted moong | ½ cup | 30 |
| Roasted papad | 1 piece | 38 |
| Carrot sticks | 1 cup | 25 |
Benefits
- Low-Calorie Content: Perfect for those watching their weight.
- Nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.
- Quick Preparation: Most of these snacks require minimal cooking.
- Portable: Easy to carry and consume on the go.
- Hydration and Energy: Many options, like cucumber, also help with hydration.
Recipes
1. Cucumber Slices with Chaat Masala
- Ingredients: Fresh cucumber, chaat masala.
- Preparation: Slice cucumber and sprinkle chaat masala.
- Reason: Refreshing and hydrating.
- Impact: Keeps you full with minimal calories.
2. Mini Idli
- Ingredients: Rice, urad dal batter.
- Preparation: Steam small portions in an idli steamer.
- Reason: Light yet filling.
- Impact: Provides energy during busy schedules.
3. Roasted Gram
- Ingredients: Whole chickpeas.
- Preparation: Roast on low heat until crispy.
- Reason: High in protein and fiber.
- Impact: Maintains satiety for hours.
4. Puffed Rice Mixture
- Ingredients: Puffed rice, peanuts, curry leaves, turmeric.
- Preparation: Lightly roast and mix all ingredients.
- Reason: Low in calories and crunchy.
- Impact: Perfect for a quick energy boost.
5. Sprouted Moong Salad
- Ingredients: Sprouted moong, lemon juice, spices.
- Preparation: Mix sprouts with a dash of lemon and spices.
- Reason: Rich in proteins and easy to digest.
- Impact: Boosts immunity and keeps hunger at bay.
6. Roasted Papad
- Ingredients: Lentil flour papad.
- Preparation: Roast on direct flame or in a microwave.
- Reason: Crispy and satisfying.
- Impact: Acts as a healthy substitute for chips.
Gist Table
| Snack | Region | Ingredients | Calories |
| Cucumber slices | North | Cucumber, chaat masala | 16 |
| Mini idli | South | Rice, lentils | 40 |
| Roasted papad | West | Lentil flour, spices | 38 |
| Muri mixture | East | Puffed rice, peanuts | 50 |
| Sprouted moong | Pan-India | Moong dal, spices | 30 |
FAQs
What food equals 50 calories?
Snacks like puffed rice (1 cup) and roasted gram (2 tablespoons) offer approximately 50 calories.
Which Indian snack has the least calories?
Cucumber slices with chaat masala are among the lowest, providing just 16 calories per cup.
What is under 50 calories?
Snacks such as roasted papad, sprouted moong, and carrot sticks fall under 50 calories per serving.
What is a snack under 100 calories?
Mini idli and roasted peanuts are examples of snacks under 100 calories.
What fruit is 50 calories?
Fruits like one small apple or half a guava contain around 50 calories.
What snack is 60 calories?
A small serving of roasted chickpeas (3 tablespoons) is about 60 calories.
What snack is 30 calories?
Half a cup of sprouted moong dal has just 30 calories.
What food has 57 calories?
One medium-sized boiled egg provides approximately 57 calories.
This collection highlights traditional Indian low-calorie snacks that are tasty, healthy, and easy to prepare.
