The Ultimate Guide to India’s Best Mezes

When it comes to Indian cuisine, the diversity and richness are truly astounding. One of the most delightful aspects of Indian food is its array of mezes, or small dishes, that tantalize your taste buds and enhance the dining experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best mezes across India that you must try.

1. Paneer Tikka

This classic starter features chunks of paneer marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, skewered, and grilled to perfection. Often served with mint chutney, paneer tikka is a vegetarian favorite that you can find in many North Indian eateries.

2. Hummus and Pita

Although originally Middle Eastern, hummus has found a place in Indian cafes, particularly in urban centers. The creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil paired with warm pita bread makes for a satisfying snack or appetizer.

3. Aloo Tikki

Aloo tikki consists of spiced potato patties that are shallow-fried until golden brown. Often topped with tamarind chutney and yogurt, this street food staple is popular in Northern India and offers a delightful crispy texture.

4. Dahi Puri

Dahi puri is a delightful combination of crispy puris filled with spiced potatoes, topped with yogurt, chutneys, and spices. This tangy and savory treat is widely enjoyed in Mumbai and is a must-try for those who love street food.

5. Samosas

These iconic, deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas are synonymous with Indian snacking. Samosas are often served hot with mint or tamarind chutney, making them an irresistible meze option.

6. Prawn Koliwada

Originating from the coastal regions of Maharashtra, prawn koliwada features marinated prawns coated in a spicy gram flour batter and deep-fried. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for something flavorful and crunchy.

7. Baida Roti

This delectable dish is a stuffed, flaky flatbread filled with minced meat and eggs. Popular in Mumbai and known for its rich flavors, baida roti is often enjoyed with green chutney.

8. Masala Papad

A simple yet delightful starter, masala papad consists of crispy papads topped with a mix of onions, tomatoes, and spices. This dish adds a delicious crunch to any meal and is frequently served in Indian households and restaurants alike.

9. Chole Bhature

While often considered a full meal, chole bhature can also be enjoyed in smaller portions as a meze. This dish features spicy chickpeas served with deep-fried bread, indicative of North Indian cuisine.

10. Idli and Coconut Chutney

Originating from South India, idli is a fluffy, steamed rice cake served with coconut chutney. Even though it’s a breakfast staple, a small serving makes it a delightful meze that showcases the simplicity and deliciousness of Indian cooking.

11. Aam Papad

A non-traditional yet beloved meze, aam papad is a sweet and tangy dried fruit leather made from mango pulp. It offers a unique blend of flavors and is often enjoyed as a snack between meals.

12. Nippattu

A crunchy, spiced rice cracker hailing from Southern India, nippattu is made from rice flour and lentil powder, seasoned with sesame seeds and spices. It's an exceptional meze that pairs perfectly with tea.

Exploring India’s best mezes offers a gastronomic journey through the regions and cultures of this vibrant nation. Whether enjoyed at a local street stall or a high-end restaurant, these mezes provide a delightful way to start any meal. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these mouth-watering dishes on your culinary adventure in India!