9 Desi snacks that have more protein than Eggs

Discover 9 tasty and healthy snacks perfect for those on a high protein diet, including traditional Indian snacks rich in protein content like chana and soybean chaat.
9 Desi snacks that have more protein than Eggs
Weekend is here and if you too are planning to host a party or indulge in some delicious snacks that too without ruining your diet plans? Then here are 9 tasty and healthy snacks that are perfect for people on a high protein diet. So, without further ado follow us through these 9 snacks and enjoy!
Why protein?
Protein is undeniably one of the most essential nutrients that support muscle growth, repair tissues and improve overall health.
While eggs are often considered a standard source of protein, there are several other traditional Indian snacks that offer even higher protein content per serving. Eggs are a highly nutritious and versatile food that can be easily incorporated into any diet. They provide essential nutrients that support muscle health, brain function, eye health, weight management, heart health, and immune function. These snacks not only satisfy hunger pangs but also provide a substantial protein boost to fuel your day. Here’s a look at 9 desi snacks that pack more protein than eggs:
Chana
Roasted chickpeas, or chana, are a popular and nutritious snack across India. They are crunchy, flavorful, and packed with protein. Just 100 grams of roasted chickpeas can provide approximately 19 grams of protein, making them an excellent protein-rich snack option.
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Soybean Chaat
Soybeans are renowned for their high protein content. When prepared as a chaat with spices, onions, tomatoes, and a dash of lemon juice, soybean chaat becomes a delicious and protein-packed snack. It can contain around 18 grams of protein per 100 grams, offering a substantial protein boost.

Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is the most loved Indian appetizer, wherein cubes of paneer are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and grilled or baked until golden and flavorful. Paneer itself is rich in protein, providing about 18 grams of protein per 100 grams when grilled, making it a protein powerhouse snack.
Sprouts Salad
Sprouts, such as moong dal (green gram) or mixed bean sprouts, are nutrient-dense and high in protein. A simple sprouts salad seasoned with lemon juice, salt, and spices can offer around 9-13 grams of protein per 100 grams, depending on the types of sprouts used.
Almonds
Almonds are a nutritious and protein-rich snack that has been enjoyed in India for centuries. They provide about 21 grams of protein per 100 grams, along with healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a wholesome choice for a protein-packed snack.
Peanut Chaat
Peanuts are a staple in many Indian households and are often consumed as a chaat, mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, spices, and a squeeze of lemon juice. They offer approximately 25 grams of protein per 100 grams, making peanut chaat a satisfying and protein-rich snack option.
Makhana
Makhana, or fox nuts, are light and crunchy snacks often roasted with a touch of ghee and spices. They are low in fat and high in protein, providing around 9 grams of protein per 100 grams. Makhana is also a good source of antioxidants and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.
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Greek Yogurt with Nuts and berries
While Greek yogurt is not traditionally Indian, it has become increasingly popular and can be enjoyed with a desi twist by adding chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios and berries of choice. Greek yogurt itself is high in protein, offering about 10 grams of protein per 100 grams, and when combined with nuts, it becomes a protein powerhouse snack.
Sattu Drink
Sattu is a flour made from roasted gram (chana) and is highly nutritious, rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Sattu drinks are popular in parts of North India, where sattu flour is mixed with water, milk, or yogurt and often flavored with spices like cumin and salt. A glass of sattu drink can provide around 20 grams of protein per serving, making it a refreshing and protein-packed desi snack option.
Cottage Cheese Salad
100 grams of cottage cheese contains around 11 grams of protein. Also cottage cheese is rich in calcium and low in fat, which makes it an excellent source for muscle recovery.
Soya Salad
Soya salad combines boiled or steamed soybeans with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. It's seasoned with a light vinaigrette dressing and garnished with herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor. This protein-rich salad is nutritious, filling, and perfect for a balanced meal or a refreshing side dish.
Rajma Tikka
To make rajma tikka, start by boiling 1 cup of rajma (kidney beans) until tender. Drain and mash them coarsely. In a bowl, mix the mashed rajma with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese), 1 finely chopped onion, 1 finely chopped green chili, 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste, 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder, salt to taste, and a handful of chopped coriander leaves. Shape the mixture into small tikka patties or cylinders. Heat a non-stick pan or grill pan and cook the tikka patties with a little oil until golden and crispy on both sides. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
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