5-Minute Easy Indian Snacks_ 9 Quick Fixes for Hungry Kids Anytime A Day
Written by Tarishi Shrivastava | August 26, 2025
Introduction
Hunger doesn’t wait for the clock, and when it strikes, kids don’t always want a full meal. Whether it’s between classes, post-playtime or during homework breaks, quick snacks can be a lifesaver. The key? Keeping it fast, fun and nutritious without reaching for packaged foods every time.
Indian kitchens are already stocked for this kind of snacking. From a leftover roti rolled with jaggery and ghee to a quick poha tossed with peanuts, these are more than just stopgap bites. They’re comforting, familiar and most importantly, doable in 5 minutes or less. You don’t need fancy tools or exotic ingredients, just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of imagination.
Snacks like murmura chaat, moong salad or instant suji toast can keep your child going without weighing them down. Some of these ideas even double up as early dinners or lunchbox fillers on busy days. And when kids are involved in making them, even if it’s just sprinkling chaat masala, it turns snack time into a tiny moment of fun.
With the right choices, these 5-minute Indian snacks can be your go-to for feeding hungry tummies any time of the day—without compromising on taste or nutrition.
7 Indian Snacks You Can Make in Just 5 Minutes
When a child says they’re hungry, the clock starts ticking fast. Even if it’s after school, between activities, or right before dinner, kids need something quick, but it doesn’t have to be fried or store-bought. Indian kitchens hold plenty of ingredients that turn into satisfying, healthy snacks in under five minutes. These aren’t complicated recipes or new additions to your pantry; they’re smart ways to use what you already have, with a little twist.
Here are seven 5-minute Indian snacks that are not only easy to make but also comforting and kid-approved.
Jaggery-Ghee Roti Roll
Take a leftover chapati, spread a little ghee, and sprinkle jaggery. Roll it up, and it’s ready. This snack offers natural sweetness, iron, and warmth. It's soft enough for younger kids and familiar enough to be a favorite. You can also add a pinch of grated coconut or crushed nuts for texture.
Masala Murmura (Puffed Rice Toss-Up)
Murmura tossed in a spoon of mustard oil or ghee with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and a pinch of salt, and the masala is ready in minutes. It’s crunchy, filling, and has no frying involved. You can make a dry version for tiffins or a juicy one for immediate snacking. Just make sure to use fresh murmura for the best texture.
Instant Moong Dal Cheela
If you have soaked moong dal or even moong dal flour, blend with a bit of ginger, salt, and water. Pour onto a hot pan and cook like a dosa. You can sneak in grated veggies like carrots or spinach to boost its fiber. It’s a protein-rich snack that feels like a meal.
Steamed Suji Veggie Balls
Mix suji (semolina) with curd, salt, and a handful of grated carrots or boiled peas. Steam in small idli moulds or just in a covered pan. In five minutes, you’ll have soft, savoury bites that go well with chutney or curd. A great way to serve vegetables in a snackable form.
Spiced Corn Bowl
Boil or microwave some sweet corn, mix in a pinch of butter, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and chaat masala. It’s juicy, warm, and loved by most kids. Add bits of cucumber or tomato for crunch. Corn is rich in B vitamins and fiber, and this version doesn’t need much prep.
Paneer Tikka on Tawa
Slice paneer into small cubes, coat with dahi, turmeric, salt, and a hint of masala. Toss it on a hot tawa and sear for a minute or two on each side. You’ll have quick paneer tikkas that are warm, tasty, and packed with calcium and protein. Serve with a dip or just a squeeze of lemon.
Fruit Chaat with Chaat Masala
Dice apples, bananas, papaya, or whatever is in season. Add a dash of lemon juice, a tiny sprinkle of chaat masala, and toss well. This snack feels like a treat but is full of vitamins. The fun mix of sweet and tangy flavors keeps it interesting for kids of all ages.
Conclusion
When you’re pressed for time but want to keep snacking on nutritious foods, it helps to think in combinations, not just ingredients. A leftover roti can become a sweet roll, a handful of murmura can turn into a filling chaat, and basic paneer becomes the star of a mini meal. These quick Indian snacks aren’t just time-savers, they’re habit-formers that encourage children to enjoy familiar, wholesome food every day. Keep ingredients prepped, involve your child in the process, and enjoy snack time as a shared ritual that’s just as nourishing as it is tasty.