Within the huge diversity of Indian cuisine there exists a large range of dishes that can be enjoyed both as appetizers and as snacks, from world-famous favourites such as onion bhajiyas to less well-known delicacies such as lotus root kebabs. While these are generally eaten in the afternoon with tea in India, they are equally delicious served with drinks before a meal or as a first course.
Snacks are a big part of the Indian way of life - there are street vendors in every city, town and village, selling enticing treats that are enjoyed in cinemas, at sports events and even walking down the road. They are also often eaten with one of the many different types of Indian chutney, as their diverse flavours, colours and textures both contrast with and complement the food.