Global food trends that started in Indian kitchens

From frothy coffees to crunchy snack mixes, several “viral” Western food trends have deep roots in Indian kitchens. Long before TikTok and café culture popularised them globally, Indian households were already mastering these techniques. Here are six Western food hacks that actually trace back to India.

Chai Latte equals to Masala Chai: The café favourite “chai latte” is essentially a sweeter, milkier adaptation of Indian masala chai, a spiced tea traditionally brewed with ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and milk. The word “chai” itself simply means tea in Hindi.

Pickled Everything? India Has Done It For Centuries: The recent Western obsession with pickling vegetables, lemons, and even chillies mirrors India’s ancient achar tradition, oil based and sun-cured pickles preserved with salt and spices long before refrigeration.

Trail Mix and Snack Mix Culture: What many call “trail mix” has a long standing Indian counterpart, mixtures like chivda and namkeen, which combine roasted nuts, dried fruits, spices, and crunchy elements for an energy packed snack.

Turmeric Latte Trend: The “golden milk latte” that gained popularity in wellness cafés is rooted in Indian haldi doodh, warm milk infused with turmeric and often black pepper, traditionally consumed for immunity and healing.

Whipped Coffee Was India’s ‘Phenti Hui Coffee’: When whipped coffee went viral worldwide, many credited it to Korean dalgona coffee. But in Indian homes, “phenti hui coffee” (hand whipped instant coffee with sugar) has been made for decades, vigorously beaten with a spoon until light and frothy before adding milk.

Bowl Meals and Thali Culture: Modern grain bowls and Buddha bowls echo India’s thali system, a balanced platter with grains, lentils, vegetables, yogurt, and condiments served together to create nutritional harmony in one meal.