When it comes to Indian evening snacks, few states offer the variety and depth of Madhya Pradesh. Situated at the heart of India, this state is a cultural and culinary melting pot. Influences from neighboring states and local traditions have given birth to an array of snacks that are spicy, sweet, crunchy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you are craving something light with tea or a heavier treat that doubles as a mini meal, MP has something for everyone. Here are ten delightful evening snacks that bring out the true flavor of Madhya Pradesh.
10 Delightful Evening Snacks
1. Indori Poha
This iconic flattened rice dish is a breakfast and evening staple across Indore. What sets Indori Poha apart is the steam-cooking process which gives it a fluffy texture. It is tossed with mustard seeds, onions, green chilies, and topped with sev, pomegranate, and a dash of lemon. Often served with jalebi, this sweet and savory combo is a classic Madhya Pradesh pairing.
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Bhutte Ka Kees
A unique street food from Indore, Bhutte ka Kees is made by grating fresh corn and cooking it with milk, ghee, mustard seeds, and green chilies. It’s creamy yet spicy, with a slightly sweet aftertaste. Garnished with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime, it's a monsoon favorite and a must-try for anyone who loves innovative vegetarian snacks.
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Dal Bafla
Dal Bafla is the Madhya Pradesh version of Rajasthan’s dal baati. The bafla is a baked wheat ball that is first boiled and then roasted. It’s served with spicy dal and lots of ghee. While more filling than your average snack, its rich flavor and comforting aroma make it perfect for early evenings or light dinners.
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Khasta Kachori
These flaky, golden puffs are stuffed with spicy moong dal or urad dal filling. Crunchy on the outside and flavorful inside, Khasta Kachori is often served with tangy tamarind and spicy mint chutneys. It’s a common sight at street stalls across Bhopal and Gwalior, especially during evening hours.
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Bedai and Jalebi
A classic breakfast-turned-snack in Gwalior, Bedai is a deep-fried puri filled with spiced lentils. It’s crispy, savory, and perfectly complements the sugary syrup-soaked jalebi served alongside it. The hot and cold contrast, along with sweet and spicy flavors, make this duo irresistible.
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Sabudana Khichdi
Typically consumed during religious fasts, this dish of soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices has gained popularity as a wholesome snack. In MP, it’s served warm in the evenings with a squeeze of lemon and chopped coriander. Its soft texture and nutty crunch offer both taste and nutrition.
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Chakki ki Shaak with Palak Puri
This combo is a hidden gem in MP cuisine. Chakki is made from wheat flour dough, steamed and sautéed in a spicy, tangy gravy. Served with Palak Puri (deep-fried bread infused with spinach), this dish makes for a colorful and flavorful evening snack that's both hearty and healthy.
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Mawa Bati
A rich and indulgent sweet, Mawa Bati resembles a large gulab jamun but has a firmer texture. Made from khoya, nuts, and cardamom, it's deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. Often eaten as a dessert snack in the evenings, especially during festivals, it’s pure decadence in a bite.
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Malpua with Rabdi
This festive delight is Madhya Pradesh’s answer to pancakes. Malpuas are made from flour and sugar, deep-fried in ghee, and served with a topping of thick, chilled rabdi. It’s especially popular in regions like Jabalpur and Bhopal and is a common offering during festive evenings.
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Khurma
Khurma is a crunchy, sweet snack made by deep-frying diamond-shaped dough pieces and coating them with sugar syrup. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a favorite tea-time accompaniment in many Madhya Pradesh households. Its simplicity and shelf life make it a beloved homemade treat.
Evenings in Madhya Pradesh are made memorable by its rich snacking culture, where every bite carries the essence of tradition and local innovation. Whether it’s the spicy zing of Bhutte ka Kees or the syrupy indulgence of Mawa Bati, each snack adds a unique flavor to the state’s culinary identity. These ten options offer more than just taste, they’re an invitation to experience Madhya Pradesh one delicious snack at a time. So next time hunger strikes in the evening, skip the usual and treat yourself to these regional wonders.
