The Global Rise of Indian Sweets & Snacks: Why Traditional Flavors Are Winning Hearts Worldwide
What do we do on an evening when gathered together on a Sunday with family, chit-chatting with colleagues at the office, or going for a walk? We feel like having some snacks and sweets, which are just a step away from where we live.
And how did these culinary Indian sweets and snacks reach the global market? What was once local sweets and snacks, enjoyed during festivals, occasions, and small gatherings, is now reaching international markets as Indians are widespread across the globe. Do Indians miss out on traditions and food? The answer is no. This has created awareness and demand in global markets. Slowly, small local stores and restaurants have started opening in foreign countries.
The reason behind this popularity is the unique flavors of Indian snacks and sweets. Indian food always has a balance of sweet, tangy, spicy, and crunchy, especially in our favorite Chaat. Its flavors are rarely found in global markets, and Indians, no matter where they are, crave it deeply.
Indian sweets like Rasgulla, Gulab Jamun, and Jalebi, do you think Indians can live without these? No way. But abroad, there are very limited options, and often the taste is compromised. For Indians living overseas, Indian snacks and sweets act as a bridge that reminds them of home and keeps them connected to their roots.
The demand is growing globally as Indians share these sweets and snacks with non-Asian friends and colleagues, helping them develop a unique taste for them as well. What started as NRIs’ favorites has now turned into demand in global markets, with Indian brands stocking their products in supermarkets, online platforms, and specialty stores worldwide.
Since options abroad are limited, you always have the choice of shipping your favorite Indian sweets online and Indian snacks online through credible platforms, and yes, often with free shipping. Let’s now take a look at a few Indian sweets and snacks that have gained traction globally.
Indian Sweets and Snacks Popular Abroad and Online
Popular Indian Sweets worldwide and Online:
Here are popular sweets from India you can get:
Gulab Jamun:
MTR Gulab Jamun Tin is M a soft, tempting, melt-in-the-mouth Gulab Jamuns that you can prepare instantly with simple steps. For extra flavor, add a pinch of rose essence or cardamom to the sugar syrup and serve hot.
Rasgulla:
Patanjali Rasgulla is a traditional Indian sweet made with sugar, cow’s milk, and rose water. It comes in a ready-to-eat, airtight tin pack, available in 1 kg size with about 18 pieces.
Jalebi:
Gits Jalebi Mix helps prepare traditional Indian jalebis with wheat flour and lentil batter. The mix is designed for making pretzel-shaped sweets that are fried and dipped in sugar syrup.
Laddu:
Pulla Reddy Boondi Laddu is a sweet made from gram flour, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. It is available in different pack sizes and best stored in a cool, dry place.
Kaju Katli:
Dadu’s Sugar-Free Kaju Katli is made with cashews and sweetened with stevia. It is a vegetarian product, crafted without artificial colors or preservatives.
Popular Indian Snacks worldwide and online:
Here are popular snacks from India you can get:
Samosa
Nathu’s Cocktail Samosa
These mini samosas are filled with a dal masala filling, prepared in a bite-sized, crispy form. It’s a convenient option for gatherings and casual snacking.
Namkeen & Mixtures
Haldiram’s Namkeen Khatta Meetha
It’s a vegetarian namkeen with a mix of sweet and tangy flavors. It has to be stored in a cool, dry place and kept in an airtight container after opening.
Murukku / Chakli
Murugan Idli Ellu Murukku
It’s a traditional South Indian spiral-shaped snack made with rice flour and sesame seeds. The taste is Crisp and savory, often enjoyed during festive occasions or tea time.
Bhujia
Asha Sweet Center Aloo Bhujia
It is prepared with potato, besan, spices, and edible oil for a crunchy texture. Comes in a pack with a best-before period of 60 days from manufacture.
Khakhra
Daadi’s Chilli Kothmir Khakhra
It’s a thin, roasted wheat crisp seasoned with coriander and chili. Light, crunchy, and suitable for those who prefer spiced snacks.
Wrapping Up:
All these Indian sweets and snacks are known globally, as Indians never miss carrying them along. We know our sweets and snacks have reached global markets, but still, you have very limited options in the country you’re living in. And definitely, it’s not something you can always find easily, nor is it a quick-buy option.
Most of the time, you have to get them shipped through your family or friends, or someone has to pack them in their luggage if they visit your country, and even then, you may need to compromise on the quantity. It really takes a long time to have more options abroad.
But have you tried this option to buy Indian sweets online? There are platforms exclusively for Indian products from both local and top brands. You can find groceries, clothing, food, and other essentials—often with free shipping. One such platform is Dista, which operates in 40+ foreign countries, offering Indian products with the aim of keeping traditions close to Indians. Why not try to order Indian sweets online once and get your essentials delivered right to your doorstep? You can also order Indian snacks online and enjoy the taste of home wherever you are.