SEEMA first ran this story in 2020, and while a lot has changed since then–COVID has changed our lives, the teams are different, and we are watching the Super Bowl under lockdown–these snacks are still as delectable and as relevant for tonight’s game as they were last year.
It’s that time of year again. Super Bowl fever is gripping the United States, and in just a few short hours, the biggest show in the country will be kicking off in a little over a week. Watched by nearly 100 million people in the US alone, the game will have most of us glued to our television sets. But what about the refreshments? For some, snacks are almost as important as the game itself, and that creates the usual dilemma – which appetizers should you prepare for this ultimate sporting occasion?
To help you out, we’ve picked a few crowd-pleasing South Asian snacks to get the taste buds tingling. So, whether you’re visiting friends or hosting your very own Super Bowl party, here are a few game-changing treats to get your teeth into.
Kebabs
Easy to make, with a variety of flavorful recipes to choose from, kebabs are the perfect way to kick off your Super Bowl celebrations. Why not try a reshmi kebab with marinated chicken? This traditional Mughlai dish takes a little longer to prepare, but the end result will have your friends cheering for more. Serve with thinly sliced onions, hot naans and a mint-coriander chutney.
Rava Fried Prawns
Forget the popcorn shrimp and break out the rava fried prawns. Originating in Goa, these crispy, crunchy crustaceans make the perfect finger food. Marinated in ginger, garlic, green chilies and lime juice, these spicy, deep-fried delights will be a crowd favorite. Serve with a side of chutney or a cool yogurt-based dip.
Mini Samosas
For a true taste of India, you can’t go wrong with samosas. This popular South Asian dish is delicious, easy to prepare and great for dipping. Wrapped in a mouth-watering crispy pastry and filled with either meat or mixed vegetables, these mini marvels are perfect for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. For a little extra spice, serve with gunpowder chutney.
Bhajis
Another traditional favorite, bhajis are the ideal party food. Ready in less than an hour, these versatile appetizers can be made with a variety of different vegetables, from potatoes to cauliflower. Season with a mixture of herbs and spices and fry until they’re a crisp, golden-brown. For a real game-changer, serve with sweet and sour tamarind chutney.
Chips and Dips
Made with crispy flatbreads and chutney, this is a traditional American snack with a South Asian twist. Whip up a selection of palate-pleasing dips and use bhakris, naans or papadams to create crunchy, flavorful chips. Onion chutney goes great with just about anything and a hot gunpowder chutney will add a bit of fire to the mix.
Sandwiches
Another South Asian take on a Western staple, sandwiches make a great post-game snack. Use traditional fillings such as vada pav, or wow your friends with something a little more exotic. Spicy chickpea patty sandwiches will get mouths watering. Serve with a tangy yogurt dressing for a little extra kick.
Gulab Jamun
No Super Bowl snack fest would be complete without something sweet. Fried until golden and dipped in a saffron-induced sugar syrup, this festive favorite is the perfect way to bring your Super Bowl party to a close. Serve hot or cold, and sprinkle with chopped pistachio nuts and flaked almonds for a little extra crunch.
End Game
So, there you have it, a smorgasbord of tempting, traditional treats – easy to prepare and guaranteed to get taste buds tingling. Whatever the outcome of this year’s Super Bowl, with our pick of South Asian culinary delights, you’re sure to be a winner.
