Monsoon season in India is a time of joy, rejuvenation, and cravings for delicious food. As raindrops fall and the aroma of wet earth fills the air, there is nothing quite like indulging in classic Indian snacks to complement the mood. From crispy fritters to steaming hot treats, these delightful snacks not only satisfy our taste buds but also bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Here are a variety of classic Indian snacks that are perfect for enjoying during the monsoon season
1. Samosas
Samosas are undoubtedly one of the most popular and beloved Indian snacks. These deep-fried, crispy pastries are typically filled with a savoury mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat. The combination of the crisp outer shell and the flavorful filling makes samosas a monsoon favourite. They are often served with mint chutney or tamarind chutney, adding an extra burst of flavour.
2. Pakoras
Pakoras, also known as bhajiyas, are deep-fried fritters made from a batter of gram flour (besan) and a variety of vegetables. Common vegetable options for pakoras include onions, potatoes, spinach, and eggplant. The batter is seasoned with spices like chilli powder, turmeric, and cumin, lending a delightful flavour to these crispy treats. Pakoras are best enjoyed with a cup of hot masala chai, enhancing the monsoon-snacking experience.
If you're looking to experiment with pakoras, try Chef Rakesh Raghunathan's pattanam pakora recipe.
3. Bhelpuri
Bhelpuri is a quintessential Indian street food snack that perfectly complements the monsoon season. It is a combination of puffed rice, sev (crunchy chickpea flour noodles), chopped vegetables like onions and tomatoes, and tangy tamarind chutney. The mixture is garnished with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of chaat masala, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Bhelpuri is a burst of flavours and textures, providing a refreshing and tangy snack experience.
4. Aloo tikki
Aloo tikki, or potato cutlets, are shallow-fried patties made from mashed potatoes mixed with spices, herbs, and sometimes peas. These crispy and flavorful tikkis are often served with a variety of accompaniments such as chutneys, yoghurt, and a sprinkle of chaat masala. Aloo tikki is a comfort food that warms the soul during monsoons and is commonly enjoyed as a tea-time snack or as part of chaat dishes.
5. Mirchi bajji
Mirchi bajji, or stuffed chilli fritters, are a popular snack in many parts of India, particularly in the southern regions. Large green chillies are filled with a spiced potato mixture, dipped in a batter made from gram flour, and deep-fried until crispy. The combination of the mild heat from the chillies and the flavorful potato stuffing creates a delightful contrast in every bite. Mirchi bajji is best enjoyed with coconut chutney or tomato ketchup.
6. Vada pav
Originating from Maharashtra, vada pav is a classic Indian street food snack that has gained popularity throughout the country. It consists of a deep-fried potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft bun (pav) and served with various chutneys and fried green chilli. The flavoursome vada, along with the spicy chutneys and the soft pav, make the vada pav a satisfying and filling snack during monsoons.
7. Corn bhutta
During the monsoon season, fresh corn on the cob, known as 'bhutta', is a popular snack enjoyed by people of all ages. The corn is typically roasted over an open flame and then seasoned with salt, chilli powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The smoky and slightly charred flavours combined with the juicy sweetness of the corn kernels make it a delicious and healthy monsoon snack.
8. Panipuri
Panipuri, also known as golgappa or puchka, is a famous street food snack that offers a burst of flavour in a single bite. It consists of crisp, hollow puris that are filled with a mixture of tangy tamarind water, spicy mint-coriander water, mashed potatoes, and a variety of chutneys. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours creates a delightful explosion of taste, making panipuri a must-have during monsoon outings. Check out Chef Smit Sagar's atom bomb golgappa recipe.
9. Masala chai with pakoras
While not strictly a snack, the combination of masala chai (spiced tea) with a plate of hot pakoras is a quintessential monsoon indulgence, the aromatic blend of tea leaves, and spices like cardamom, ginger, and cloves, paired with the crispy and savoury pakoras, creates a comforting and cosy experience during rainy days. This classic pairing is enjoyed in households across India, bringing warmth and pleasure to monsoon evenings.
10. Jalebi with fafda
No list of classic Indian snacks would be complete without mentioning jalebi. These deep-fried, spiral-shaped sweets are made by battering fermented flour, frying them until golden, and then soaking them in sugar syrup. Coupled with the Gujarati fafda, which is a flattened fried snack, this combination is an OG classic. Alternatively, enjoying a plate of hot, crispy jalebis with a cup of tea or rabri (sweet condensed milk) is a delightful way to conclude a monsoon snacking session.
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