Winter changes the way people snack. It’s no longer about quick bites grabbed between the rushed mornings, but about slow munching, something warm, crunchy, and that pairs flawlessly with foggy mornings, long, cold evenings, and endless rounds of chai. As the temperatures take a dip, the body naturally desires comfort foods that feel nourishing as well as satisfying. This is where smart winter snacks are the first thing that comes to mind. These snacks you can make once, store easily, and keep looking out for all week without having any guilt or boredom.
From roasted makhanas seasoned just right to energy-filled ladoos and savoury mixes that remain crisp for days, winter snacking is all about balance, taste, and warmth. These snacks are not rushed, but they are a part of the season’s best. Prepared ahead, stored right, and enjoyed slowly, they change everyday hunger to small moments of comfort.
Spiced Roasted Makhana
Light, crunchy, and extremely comforting, spiced makhana is the kind of winter snack that will keep your hands warm and cravings controlled. Roasted slowly in ghee, the makhana turns crisp from the outside while remaining airy from the inside. Mix black pepper, chaat masala, turmeric, and a hint of red chilli to give it a bold and familiar flavour. Make it in large portions and store it in an airtight box; it remains fresh for days.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Besan Sev
Homemade besan sev feels extra indulgent during the winter season because of its nutty fragrance and ghee-rich crispness. Chickpea flour dough or besan is pressed into hot oil, fried until golden, then tossed with ajwain, black pepper, and a pinch of hing, and mild spices that help in digestion during the cold months. Once it is cooled, sev remains crunchy for an entire week if it is stored properly. Sprinkle it over curd, salads, or simply have a handful as a snack. It is filling and far more enjoyable than the store-bought packaged snacks.
Sweet Potato Chaat Mix
Boiled sweet potatoes tossed with some roasted peanuts, cumin powder, lemon juice, and mild spices make a snack that feels both healthy and indulgent. Make the roasted peanuts and spice mix in advance, and store the boiled sweet potatoes separately. Throughout the entire week, simply mix and warm slightly before you wish to eat. The natural sweetness balances the spices nicely, making it perfect for winter evenings when you desire something comforting but also not fried. It is wholesome, seasonal, and extremely satisfying.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Dry Fruit & Seed Laddoos
These dry fruit laddoos are winter power-packed into a bite. Dates, nuts, seeds, and a touch of ghee, when mixed, make soft, chewy laddoos that remain good for up to a week when stored in the fridge. The texture is thick and comforting, and the ingredients like sesame seeds, almonds, and dry ginger powder give the natural warmth. Make them once, store them nicely, and enjoy one ladoo whenever hunger hits. They are perfect for cold mornings or for post-dinner cravings for something sweet.
Mathri
Crisp, flaky mathri feels tailor-made when you want to snack in winter. Made with flour, ghee, ajwain, and crushed black pepper, these savoury crackers are slow-fried for that deep crunch and rich flavour. Once it is cooled, it can be stored beautifully for up to a week or even more. Pair it with a pickle, chai, or even with a cup of soup. Every bite feels warming, making mathri a snack you will keep looking for throughout the week without even getting bored.
(Image credit: Freepik)