India's monsoon season is not just a meteorological event but a cultural phenomenon that breathes life into the land and its people. As the first raindrops hit the parched earth, an almost palpable excitement is in the air, deeply tied to the country's rich culinary heritage.
The monsoon season significantly influences food choices in India. The onset of rain heralds a time for warm, spicy, and savoury delights that offer comfort and warmth. These foods are more than just sustenance; they celebrate the monsoon, a way to savour the season's distinct mood and flavour.
Grilled Corn (Bhutta)
One of the quintessential street foods of India during the monsoon is the humble yet delightful grilled corn, locally known as bhutta. The smoky aroma of corn being roasted on open coals, often on makeshift grills by the roadside, signals that the rains have arrived.
Corn is usually seasoned with a simple yet effective combination of lemon juice, salt, and chilli powder, creating a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and spicy flavours. Each bite of this juicy, charred corn is a taste of nostalgia, reminding many of childhood monsoon memories spent under umbrellas munching on this delightful snack.
Crispy Pakoras
When it rains, the Indian kitchen quickly comes alive with the sizzling sound of pakoras fried to golden perfection. Pakoras, or fritters, are a monsoon staple made by dipping slices of vegetables—commonly onions, potatoes, and paneer—in a seasoned gram flour batter before deep-frying them. The result is a crispy, crunchy snack that is both warming and satisfying.
Pakoras are best enjoyed with a steaming masala chai, creating a harmonious combination synonymous with the monsoon experience. The pairing is more than just food; it's a ritual, one that is repeated across countless homes in India every time the skies open up.
Pyaj/Dal Kachori
Another fried delight that finds its place on the monsoon menu is the kachori, particularly the pyaj (onion) and dal (lentil) variants. These flaky, deep-fried pastries are filled with a spiced mixture of onions or lentils, offering flavors in every bite. With its slightly sweet and spicy filling, the play kachori is a specialty of Rajasthan, where it is often enjoyed with tangy tamarind chutney.
On the other hand, Dal kachori is a popular snack across North India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Both these variations are beloved for their rich, robust taste and ability to satiate hunger, making them perfect companions for a rainy day.
Chole Bhature
For those looking to indulge, chole bhature is the perfect monsoon meal. This North Indian dish consists of spicy chickpeas (chole) served alongside fluffy and slightly tangy deep-fried bread (bhature). The combination is a flavour explosion, with the earthy spices of the chole contrasting beautifully with the soft, pillowy bread.
Chole bhature is a dish that requires some effort in preparation and digestion. Still, it is well worth it, especially on a fantastic, rainy day when such indulgences feel particularly rewarding.
Samosa
A list of monsoon delights would only be complete with the mention of the samosa. This triangular pastry, filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat, is a universally loved snack across India. The samosa's crisp, flaky exterior gives way to a warm, savoury filling, making it an irresistible treat, especially when paired with tamarind or mint chutney.
During the monsoon, the samosa becomes even more popular. Its comforting warmth provides the perfect antidote to the chill in the air.
Kanda Bhaji
In Maharashtra, the arrival of monsoon is heralded by the frying of kanda bhaji, a type of onion fritter. These are similar to pakoras but have a unique texture and flavour, thanks to how the onions are finely sliced and mixed with spices and gram flour before deep-frying. Kanda bhaji is often enjoyed with a side of green chutney and a hot cup of chai.
In Mumbai, these bhajis are particularly popular during the rains. They are sold by street vendors and enjoyed by people from all walks of life, who huddle under makeshift shelters to escape the downpour.
The Tradition of Chai
Chai, or tea, is integral to the Indian monsoon experience. The tradition of enjoying a hot chai while watching the rain pour down is deeply ingrained in Indian culture. Monsoon chai is often brewed with cardamom, cloves, and ginger, adding a warming kick perfect for the season. Each region has its own chai variation, but this drink's comforting nature remains universal. Whether sipping it in a bustling café or from a roadside stall, chai offers solace and connection to the season's rhythm.
Chutneys: The Flavorful Companions
No monsoon snack is complete without a side of chutney. These condiments, made from various ingredients like mint, coriander, tamarind, and coconut, add an extra layer of flavour to the already delicious snacks. With its refreshing taste, Mint chutney pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of pakoras or samosas.
In contrast, tamarind chutney offers a tangy contrast to the richness of kachoris. These chutneys are not just accompaniments but essential components of the monsoon culinary experience, enhancing the taste and enjoyment of every bite.
Street Food Culture During Monsoon
The monsoon season is when India's street food culture truly comes alive. The rain-soaked streets are lined with vendors selling various snacks, each more tempting than the last.
However, it's essential to be mindful of hygiene when indulging in street food during the monsoon. The rainy season can lead to water contamination, making it crucial to choose vendors who maintain cleanliness and hygienically prepare food. Enjoying street food is a cherished monsoon activity, but doing so safely ensures you can relish these delights without health concerns.
Sweet Treats for Rainy Days
Beyond savoury snacks, the monsoon also calls for indulgent sweet treats. Popular choices include jalebi, a syrup-soaked fried dough sweet, and gulab jamun, deep-fried milk-based balls soaked in rosewater syrup. These sweets, often enjoyed after a hearty meal of savoury snacks, provide a delightful contrast of flavours and textures, making them a beloved part of the monsoon culinary repertoire.
Conclusion:
Monsoon delights hold a cherished place in the hearts of those who experience them. The combination of warming spices, comforting textures, and the ritual of enjoying these foods during the rains create a unique culinary tradition that resonates with many. Whether you're a visitor to India or a local savouring the season, these monsoon treats offer a timeless appeal that celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian flavours and the joyous spirit of the rainy season.
