Bombay Mix/Namkeen Chocolate Bark

EVENT: FOODIEMONDAY/BLOGHOP
THEME: #210 ULTA PULTA
RECIPE: BOMBAY MIX/ NAMKEEN CHOCOLATE BARK
Bombay Mix/ Namkeen Chocolate Bark is tasty, unique & different . Get the slightly salty, chilli, sweet & crunchy taste all rolled into one. The namkeen or Bombay mix adds a bit of the saltiness and spiciness to the the sweetness of the chocolate. So go on, try something totally different to nibble on. It goes down well at gatherings or parties.
What is Namkeen/ Bombay Mix?
is fast becoming a popular snack option world over especially with some beer. You can buy a variety of Namkeen or Bombay Mix at any Indian Grocery Store. There are so many different varieties that are available.Namkeen or Bombay Mix is the generic name given to Indian snacks which tend to be a mixture of lentils, potato chips, nuts, chickpea noodles(sev), etc.
So how do you know which one to use? Well, I would suggest that you buy the smallest packet available and try it out. Use the one you like. Personally, I like the Haldiram Brand of Khatta Meetha, Navratan Mix, or the Cornflakes Chivda. All are mildly spiced. I’m believe that these are also easily available online.
What is a Chocolate Bark?
Its a sheet of chocolate topped with nuts, seeds, dried fruits and candies. Good quality chocolate dark, milk or white or a mixture is used. It is melted and then spread over parchment or greaseproof paper into a ¼ inch thick sheet. Toppings are sprinkled over it and allowed to set at room temperature. The chocolate sheet is then broken into pieces by hand. The melted chocolate sheet with the topping somewhat resembles a tree bark, little rough and thus the name chocolate bark.
FoodieMonday/ Bloghop Group
Wondering how I came up with this unique Chocolate Bark? Well, the group’s 210th theme is Ulta Pulta. In Hindi Ulta Pulta iterally means upside down. Kalyani who blogs at Sizzling Tastebuds suggested that we use any ingredient that is away from the norm. What is normally used to make a sweet dish, use it make a savory and vice versa.
Bombay Mix/ Namkeen Chocolate Bark Idea
That really made me put on my thinking cap. In fact, the way to go about it was to go ingredient wise. I narrowed down my ideas to three recipes. Use crisps or chips in cookies, use tomato soup in muffins or use Bombay Mix. How did the idea materialise? Actually, I was thinking of sea salt chocolate which I love. I had my jar of Bombay mix or Bhusu as its called in Gujarati in front of me. It has salt, it has raisins, it has cashew nuts and thus the idea to use it to make a chocolate bark.
A word or two about Kalyani’s blog, head to her place and check out her vegan and South Indian recipes. I have her pithor ki sabji and most recent thatte idli on my list to try out.
How to melt or temper the chocolate?
The easiest way to melt it is in the microwave oven for about 30 seconds and then mix it. However, I don’t have a microwave oven so I usually melt it the double boiler method. I put the chocolate in a steel or glass bowl over hot water. The bowl should not touch the water. Mix it gently and when it begins to melt, switch off the heat. Mix well till the chocolate is completely melted.
What type of toppings can you use for Chocolate Bark?
- chopped and roasted nuts
- roasted seeds
- dried fruits
- candies like M&M, crushed peppermints
- sea salt
- chilli flakes
- cookie pieces
- pretzel pieces
- cereals like cornflakes, rice crispies
- and my latest idea, Bombay Mix or chevdo or bhusu or Namkeen
How to let the Chocolate set?
Its best to let it set completely at room temperature. However, if you’re in a hurry then you can allow it to set in the fridge or freezer. The only problem with that is that it develops a slight condensation on top. When the water droplets dry out you’ll see little white spots on it which is sugar bloom or melted sugar.
Why make Chocolate Barks?
- Chocolate Barks make a great gift idea for Christmas, Diwali, birthday parties, baby showers, bachelorette parties etc, just put it into cute containers or wrap with cellophane.
- Its a great snack to enjoy in between meals.
- A good healthier way to enjoy chocolate as a dessert.
Sometimes why does the chocolate not melt?
For reasons why sometimes chocolate clumps up or becomes gritty I would recommend you read this article. It is very useful to read it before you temper or melt chocolate. I also like the tips on how to salvage the seized chocolate.
So lets get down to making Bombay Mix /Namkeen Chocolate Bark. Get the slightly salty, chilli, sweet and crunchy taste all rolled into one with this unique chocolate bark.
Some More Chocolate Treats You May Enjoy:






Ingredients Required For Namkeen/ Bombay Mix Chocolate Bark
Chocolate – use any of your choice, dark or milk chocolate. I have not tried this particular bark with white so cannot comment on how it would taste. I like to use 70% dark chocolate, usually Lindt. When in India, I prefer using Amul Dark Chocolate as they have a large selection. I usually order online from Big Basket.
Namkeen/ Bombay Mix – I prefer using homemade bhusu, which is a Gujarati savoury snack. Or I prefer using Halidram brand Khatta Meetha, Cornflakes Chivda or the Navratan Mix.
Nuts – any of your choice. Roast them lightly and chop into pieces.
Raisins – I like to add raisins. You can add also add dried cranberries, apricots, or other dried fruits. This is an optional ingredient as sometimes some namkeens already have raisins.

BOMBAY MIX/ NAMKEEN CHOCOLATE BARK
Ingredients
- 150 g chocolate of your choice dark or milk
- ¼ cup Namkeen or Bombay Mix
- ¼ cup nuts roasted and chopped
- ¼ cup raisins
Instructions
- Line a small tray with parchment or grease proof paper.
- Chop the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl.
- Melt the chocolate either in the microwave oven for 30 seconds or use the double boiler method.
- Using a silicon spatula, spread the melted chocolate over the parchment or grease proof paper.Don't make it too thin or too thick. About ¼" thickness is the best.
- Immediately sprinkle the toppings over the melted chocolate.
- Using a clean spatula or fork, gently press down the topping so that it sticks to the chocolate.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature till it becomes hard. This will depend on the weather.
- Break the bark into pieces.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool place.
Notes
- Make sure the chocolate has melted properly, otherwise it may not harden.
- Use good quality chocolate. Usually chocolate drops are not such a good idea unless they are of good quality.
- Do not add any shortening, butter, oil, milk to the melted chocolate as these ingredients will prevent it from setting.
- Make sure everything is ready before you melt and spread the chocolate.
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A little request:
If you do try this recipe then please either
- add a comment below,
- send a picture to my email mayuri.ajay.patel62@gmail.com
- tag me as #mayuri_jikoni on Instagram
- or tag me on Twitter as #Mayuri1962
57 Comments
sizzlingtastebuds
August 26, 2019 at 3:49 pm
super brilliant idea, Mayuri ! this is a great idea to use leftover namkeen with the evergreen chocolate … kudos …
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 12:25 pm
Thank you so much Kalyani for making me think out of the box.
poonampagar
August 27, 2019 at 2:30 pm
Can imagine how flavorful this chocolate bark with all time favourite namkeen must have tasted. Loved the look of the dish too ! It’s so colorful . Would definitely make this for my little one.
mayurisjikoni
September 5, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Thanks Poonam, hope he loves it.
The Girl Next Door
August 26, 2019 at 3:59 pm
That’s so innovative! I’m sure I’d love this, since I love a touch of savoury in my sweets.
Beautiful presentation too. The chocolate bark looks very gourmet restaurant type. 🙂
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Thank you so much Priya, was going to bring it for the get together for you guys to taste it. Perhaps next time.
The Girl Next Door
August 27, 2019 at 12:48 pm
@mayurisjikoni
Awww! Missed tasting this beauty.
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 1:13 pm
Next time Priya 🙂
poonampagar
August 27, 2019 at 2:30 pm
Can imagine how flavorful this chocolate bark with all time favourite namkeen must have tasted. Loved the look of the dish too ! It’s so colorful . Would definitely make this for my little one.
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:38 pm
Thank you so much Poonam. Hope he likes it.
GiGi Eats Celebrities
August 27, 2019 at 4:39 pm
I can see this as something INSANELY addictive!!! Hot damn!
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:37 pm
It can be additive as its such an amalgamation of flavors.
Brianne Tursi Manz
August 27, 2019 at 4:53 pm
This is a thing of beauty and deliciousness! I would love to try some!
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:36 pm
Thanks Brianne.
Emman Damian
August 27, 2019 at 5:04 pm
Namkeen Chocolate Bark sounds like a great dessert! I hope to get one or make my own soon. So nice!
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:36 pm
Emman I’m not sure if you get any ready made one, but its easy to make it at home.
Ben Butler
August 27, 2019 at 5:36 pm
That looks absolutely amazing. I’m going to have to make this. It has everything I love.
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Thanks Ben, hope you love it as much as we did.
Batter Up With Sujata
August 28, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Namkeen chocolate bark sounds great. I love sweet and savoury mixed taste. This chocolate bark topped with namkeen looks yummy. I can imagine the taste. Brilliant share.
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Thank you so much Sujata, we loved the sweet and namkeen taste.
Bill Sweeney
August 27, 2019 at 5:51 pm
The bright colors and CHOCOLATE are what I find most appealing about this snack. I could eat more of this than I should!
mayurisjikoni
August 27, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Thank you so much.
BlessedWithTwins
August 27, 2019 at 8:53 pm
Thank you so much for sharing, I love Chocolate Bark and will be giving this a try.
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Thanks, and yes you can try it out as I’ve seen most places now sell Bombay mix.
Carrie | Clean Eating Kitchen
August 28, 2019 at 12:34 am
I absolutely love this idea! I love the contrast of the chocolate and spice from the bombay mix! Look forward to making this!
Kelly Martin
August 28, 2019 at 1:31 am
This chocolate bark recipe looks amazing. I love the addition of raisins. Yum!
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:23 pm
Thanks Kelly.
ARCHANA
August 28, 2019 at 12:34 pm
Super! I love it! What an idea MadamJi. Namkeen and chocolate bark. I will make it for sure!!!! actually, I am speechless. 😀 and will keep repeating it is an amazing idea.
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:21 pm
Thank you so much Archana, try it, its so easy. Am sure the family will love it.
Emily Fata
August 28, 2019 at 6:36 pm
Chocolate bark is so addicting! I love adding in a bunch of delicious extra to it, like sweet, dried fruits! This looks amazing.
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Thank you so much Emily.
Brianna
August 29, 2019 at 12:40 am
These look delicious! I’m adding everything to my shopping list!
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:17 pm
Thanks Brianna, hope you like it.
Eileen M Loya
August 29, 2019 at 1:41 am
Looks delicious! I love the ingredients you used for this. I haven’t made chocolate bark in a long time, so I guess it is time I did! I will use this recipe and I can’t wait to enjoy this treat!
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:17 pm
Thanks Eileen, hope you love it.
TheSuperMomLife
August 29, 2019 at 5:31 am
We make bark often in our house! It’s so easy and you can really play with ingredients!
mayurisjikoni
August 29, 2019 at 12:17 pm
That’s so true and I find they are ideal for gifts and snacking on.
FoodTrails
August 30, 2019 at 7:21 pm
Superb idea of adding of spicy namkeen to make chocolate snack..very innovative!! never thought about it.. It’s a sure shot treat for someone like my daughter who loves chocolate and spicy namkeen mixtures. Will love try it for her!!
mayurisjikoni
September 1, 2019 at 8:27 pm
Thanks Swaty, the idea came about because of my love for sea salt and chocolate combination and then the second favorite the chili and chocolate combo.
preethi76
September 1, 2019 at 9:23 am
Bombay Mix Namkeen chocolate bark is a brilliant and innovative idea. I am sure it tasted delicious.
mayurisjikoni
September 1, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Thanks Preethi, it did taste good.
Renu Agrawal Dongre
September 2, 2019 at 5:42 pm
Wonderful idea to use namkeen in a chocolate bark. Namkeen and meetha taste in one. Love the colours on the bark, look so vibrant
mayurisjikoni
September 3, 2019 at 2:05 pm
Thanks Renu, try it, namkeen and chocolate is delicious.
Sasmita Sahoo Samanta
October 4, 2019 at 7:26 pm
Amazing amazing !!!! so unique combination di here… chocolate with salty mixture sounds really interesting 🙂 I am surey
going try as my boy craves for these two 😉
mayurisjikoni
October 5, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Thanks Sasmita. Please do try the recipe.
Priya Srinivasan
January 30, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Wow thats an excellent idea to use salt and savory over chocolate mayuriji! Such an unique combination, when they use pretzels then why not our namkeen, brilliant mayuriji! Will give this exotic chocolate bark a try!
mayurisjikoni
February 1, 2022 at 1:28 am
Thank you so much Priya. Please do give it a try. Though I would recommend not to use any snack which has kala namak (sanchar).
Shobha Keshwani
January 30, 2022 at 5:06 pm
Wow !!! This is really innovative. Hats off to you for coming up with such brilliant ideas. Namkeen and chocolate combo. I am in awe of this and will make it for my kids when I visit them in April.
mayurisjikoni
February 1, 2022 at 1:26 am
Thank you so much Shobha. Give it a try, it does taste so good. I shared it with my neighbours when I made it and they loved it.
Neha
January 31, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Bombay Mix Namkeen Chocolate Bark surely is an innovative creation. I am just wondering how it would taste – sweet , salty, savorish?? Interesting recipe and well explained right to minute details regarding melting of chocolate.
mayurisjikoni
February 1, 2022 at 1:21 am
Thank you so much Neha, if you like chilli chocolate and salted caramel chocolate then you’ll this bark.. it is sweet, salty almost savourish.
Priya Vj
February 1, 2022 at 4:25 am
Just out of the world and I am damn sure these chocolate barks topped with namkeen are addictive and no one can stop with one !
mayurisjikoni
February 2, 2022 at 10:10 pm
Thank you so much Priya, Hubby couldn’t stop at one, neither could I.
Rinku Bhattacharya
February 1, 2022 at 10:31 pm
Hey, this is such a cool idea! I love the idea of the sweet and savory and of course a lot of texture!
mayurisjikoni
February 2, 2022 at 10:05 pm
Thank you Rinku.
Mina Joshi
February 2, 2022 at 2:26 pm
Wow – love this idea of making something sweet and savoury together. I love salted caramel so I can imagine how these must taste. Love the photos too.
mayurisjikoni
February 2, 2022 at 10:03 pm
Thanks Mina, try out a bit when you next melt some chocolate. Tastes good.