Bhai Dooj, the festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, is a time for family, fun, and delicious food. Whether you're looking to serve a light snack or something more indulgent, these quick snacks will make your Bhai Dooj celebration even more special. Each of these recipes can be made in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute preparations or when you’re short on time.

1. Paneer Tikka

Why it works:
Paneer Tikka is a popular vegetarian snack that’s savory, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Marinated paneer (cottage cheese) cubes are grilled or roasted, creating a crispy exterior with a soft interior.

Ingredients:

· 200g paneer (cubed)

· 2 tbsp yogurt

· 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

· 1 tsp red chili powder

· 1 tsp garam masala

· 1 tbsp lemon juice

· salt to taste

· 1 tbsp oil for grilling

Method:

1. Mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt to make the marinade.

2. Coat the paneer cubes with the marinade and let them sit for 5-10 minutes.

3. Heat oil in a non-stick pan or grill pan.

4. Cook the paneer on medium heat until golden and crispy on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).

5. Serve hot with green chutney.

Benefits:

· High in protein

· Full of flavors

· Easy and quick to make

2. Aloo Tikki

Why it works:
Aloo Tikki is a crispy, golden, spiced potato patty that’s perfect for any festival. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

· 2 boiled potatoes (mashed)

· 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

· 1 tsp cumin powder

· 1/2 tsp garam masala

· salt to taste

· Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

· 1 tbsp oil for shallow frying

Method:

1. In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, cumin powder, garam masala, salt, and coriander leaves.

2. Shape the mixture into small patties.

3. Heat oil in a pan and shallow fry the tikkis on both sides until golden and crispy.

4. Serve with tamarind chutney or yogurt.

Benefits:

· Easy to prepare

· Gluten-free (if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs)

· A crowd favorite

3. Veg Hummus Sandwiches

Why it works:
These Veg Hummus Sandwiches are a healthy, no-cook option that combines fresh vegetables with the goodness of hummus. They’re perfect for a quick bite.

Ingredients:

· 4 slices of whole wheat bread

· 3 tbsp hummus

· 1 small cucumber (sliced)

· 1 tomato (sliced)

· 1/4 cup shredded carrots

· salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Spread a generous amount of hummus on each slice of bread.

2. Layer with cucumber, tomato, and shredded carrots.

3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Close the sandwich, cut into halves or quarters, and serve.

Benefits:

· Fresh and crunchy

· Packed with fiber

· Perfect for a light snack

4. dhokla (Steamed Chickpea Cake)

Why it works:
Dhokla is a savory, steamed snack from gujarat that's light and healthy. It’s perfect for a festive occasion and can be prepared quickly using ready-made dhokla flour.

Ingredients:

· 1 cup dhokla flour (available at indian grocery stores)

· 1/2 cup water

· 1/2 tsp baking soda

· 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste

· 1 tbsp lemon juice

· salt to taste

· 1 tbsp oil

· 1 tsp mustard seeds

· curry leaves (optional)

Method:

1. Mix dhokla flour with water, baking soda, ginger-chili paste, lemon juice, and salt.

2. Pour the batter into a greased steaming tray.

3. Steam for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

4. In a small pan, heat oil, add mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Pour this tempering over the dhokla.

5. Cut into squares and serve.

Benefits:

· Steamed, low-calorie snack

· Light on the stomach

· Full of protein

5. Moong Dal Chilla (Savory Pancakes)

Why it works:
Moong dal chilla is a savory, protein-packed pancake that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. It’s light, healthy, and perfect for a quick festive treat.

Ingredients:

· 1 cup moong dal (yellow split gram)

· 1/2 onion (finely chopped)

· 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

· 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

· salt to taste

· Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)

· 1 tbsp oil for frying

Method:

1. Soak the moong dal for 3-4 hours, then blend it into a smooth batter with a little water.

2. Add cumin, turmeric, onion, coriander, and salt to the batter.

3. Heat a non-stick pan and add a little oil.

4. Pour a ladle of batter into the pan and spread it evenly into a circle.

5. Cook on both sides until golden brown. Serve with green chutney.

Benefits:

· High in protein

· Easy to digest

· Can be made in just 15 minutes

6. fruit Chaat (Fruit Salad with Spices)

Why it works:
Fruit Chaat is a refreshing and healthy snack that’s both sweet and spicy. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the abundance of seasonal fruits, with a zing of masala.

Ingredients:

· 1 apple (chopped)

· 1 orange (peeled and chopped)

· 1/2 pomegranate (seeds)

· 1/2 cucumber (chopped)

· 1 tsp chaat masala

· 1/2 tsp black salt

· A pinch of red chili powder

· 1 tsp lemon juice

Method:

1. Combine all the chopped fruits and cucumber in a bowl.

2. Sprinkle with chaat masala, black salt, red chili powder, and lemon juice.

3. Toss everything well and serve immediately.

Benefits:

· Refreshing and hydrating

· Packed with vitamins and minerals

· Light and satisfying

Conclusion

These quick Bhai Dooj snacks are perfect for when you're pressed for time but want to make the celebration special. Whether you’re craving something savory, spicy, or refreshing, these dishes are sure to please everyone at the table. Most importantly, they’re simple to make in under 15 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

Find out more: