Papdi Chaat : The Perfect Diwali Snack

Recipe by Tara Maini

Bring vibrant flavour to your Diwali celebrations with Papdi Chaat, a beloved Indian street food that’s perfect for entertaining. Often called the nachos of India, this crisp, tangy, and spice filled dish is a festive crowd pleaser for any Diwali menu or Indian inspired dinner or drinks party.

Easy Papdi Chaat Recipe Perfect for Diwali Entertaining

Serves 6-8 as a drinks snack

Ingredients

Papdi crackers
1 russet potato, boiled, skin removed and chopped into small cubes (cool before using)
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped

Seasonings and Spices
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
1/4 tsp Amchoor (dried mango powder)
1/4 tsp ground coriander

Dressing
1 cup natural yoghurt, whisked
1/2 cup tamarind date chutney
1/4 cup coriander mint chutney

Garnishes
Fine sev
Coriander, small handful finely chopped for garnish
Pomegranate arils, from half a pomegranate for garnish

Method

This recipe is best made just before serving as you want the papdi crackers to retain their crunch. With everything ready, it takes about 2 minutes to arrange the dish and serve, so it makes a great entertaining option.

Start by arranging the papdi crackers on a large platter. Scatter the cooled potato cubes, chickpeas and onion over the top. Sprinkle over the seasonings and spices. When ready to serve, drizzle with the yoghurt, tamarind-date chutney and coriander-mint chutney. Garnish with fine sev, chopped coriander and pomegranate arils. Enjoy immediately with a good drink!

Additional Notes:

You can find papdi crackers, amchoor, fine sev, tamarind date chutney and coriander mint chutney from online grocers, or head to Mustafa’s in Little India in Singapore to shop in person.

Serve the papdi chaat with little plates and a large spoon for scooping - or simply let guests indulge using their fingers. This is a casual (delicious) snack intended to be enjoyed over drinks and shared amongst guests, much like nachos.

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Tara Maini Gadhoke is the creative force behind Choperella where she shares approachable, mouthwatering dishes. As a passionate recipe developer, Tara loves sharing recipes that bring joy and flavour to your table. At the heart of Choperella is the belief that gathering around food is about more than just eating – it’s about family, connection, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with those we love. Follow Tara for more recipe inspiration @choperella