Finding snacks that are tasty, quick to make, and easy on the pocket can be a real struggle—especially when cravings hit at odd hours. But the good news is that you don’t need fancy ingredients or expensive items to enjoy delicious snacking. With a few smart choices and basic pantry staples, you can prepare flavourful, satisfying snacks right at home without overspending. Here are ten budget-friendly snack ideas that are perfect for evenings, tea-time, or anytime hunger strikes!
1. Masala Poha
A light, filling, and affordable snack made from flattened rice. Add onions, peanuts, and basic spices to make it delicious and crunchy.
2. Besan Chilla
A quick gram flour pancake packed with flavour. Add chopped veggies and serve with chutney or ketchup—perfect for a quick, healthy bite.
3. Bhel Puri
This all-time favourite street snack is incredibly cheap to make at home. Just mix puffed rice, onion, tomato, sev, and chutneys. Crispy, tangy, and refreshing!
4. Potato Wedges
Satisfy your fast-food cravings with homemade potato wedges. Season with salt, pepper, and chilli powder, then bake or air-fry for a guilt-free treat.
5. Vegetable Sandwich
A simple vegetable sandwich with cucumber, tomato, onion, and a light spread is both affordable and filling. Grill it for extra flavour.
6. Makhana Roast
A healthy yet budget-friendly option. Roast foxnuts in a bit of ghee with salt and pepper. Light, crunchy, and perfect for snacking.
7. Corn Chaat
Boiled corn mixed with butter, chaat masala, lemon, and chopped veggies makes a refreshing and economical snack.
8. Chana Jor Garam
This classic snack can be upgraded at home with onions, tomatoes, coriander, and lemon. It’s inexpensive, spicy, and full of crunch.
9. Daliya Upma
Wheat daliya cooked with veggies becomes a nutritious snack that’s cheap and surprisingly tasty.
10. Peanut Chikki Bites
With just jaggery and peanuts, you can make your own energy-packed snack. Sweet, crunchy, and perfect for winter evenings.