Vocabulary test: Do you know the English names of your favourite Indian snacks?

Jan 5, 2025 etimes.in

Indian snacks, English names

There are a ton of foods and snacks that are primarily made in India, loved by Indians, and soon get ‘Westernised’. And this Westernisation does not just happen with the taste and recipe, but also the name. Here we mention some Indian snacks and their English names. canva

Pakodas

Indians love and crave Pakodas on the cold winter days, the rainy monsoon times, and even in peak summer for the perfect afternoon snacks. But, not many know that the English word and name for Pakodas are Fritters. canva

Jalebi

Jalebis are the perfect and most beloved of Indian desserts. Soaked in sugar syrup, perfectly crispy, and spiral-shaped. But, not many know that Jalebis have an English counterpart, the ‘Funnel cakes’ which come in many different flavours and sizes. canva

Rasgulla

Another beloved Indian dessert, the Rasgulla, or Roshogulla, also has an English name. They are just referred to as ‘Sweet sponge balls’ and are infused with cardamom and rose. canva

Bread cutlet

Bread cutlets have always been a beloved Indian snack, and it was a real flex to have cutlets in lunch when people went to school. And while bread cutlet is already an English name, it also has an English counterpart with the name ‘croquettes’. canva

Golgappe

Golgappe have many names even across India. Pani puri, phuchka, gupchup, patashe, and so much more. But, not many know that the English term for Golgappe is just ‘Spiced water balls’. canva

Dosa

Who does not love Dosa? They are thin, crispy, have an amazing filling, and are great for digestion. And the English name for Dosa is ‘Rice crepes’ or ‘Crispy rice pancakes’. canva

Kheer

Kheer, the rich and creamy dessert that is regularly prepared in Indian homes has many different alternatives. There is Sago kheer, fruit kheer, makhana kheer, and many more. But one of the most liked is the Rice kheer, also called ‘Rice pudding’ in English. canva

Vada

Another South Indian snack on the list with a rather ‘basic’ English term is the Vada. They are literally deep-fried goodness that are best enjoyed with chutneys, and have the name of ‘Spicy donuts’ in English. canva

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