With the first drops of rain what we all experience is a wave of nostalgia and comfort. As the air turns cooler and the earth smells fresher than ever, it is against the wholesome rhythm of the raindrops that people from across the country indulge in the most cherished culinary traditions, that being of a variety of delicious monsoon snacks. With the best monsoon snacks in India being a lot more than just culinary delights, these are what forms an integral part of the rainy season experience for all the foodies out there. Offering warmth, flavour and a sense of togetherness, the monsoon special snacks are not just for satiating your hunger, but they are about creating bonds.
In every corner of the country, the monsoons bring forth the most unique array of snacks that cater to a diverse range of palates. From the bustling streets of Kolkata to the serene hills of Kerala, Indian snacks for rainy days are a reflection of regional flavours, culinary influences as well as a display of seasonal ingredients. Whether it is the crispy pakoras of North India or the spicy bhajiyas of Gujarat, each snack has its own story to tell. Deeply intertwined in the cultural fabric of India, here’s for you to discover some of the most beloved monsoon snacks in India that are a true delight to indulge in.
From the street vendors of Mumbai to the home kitchens of Rajasthan, here are some of the most popular monsoon snacks from across the country
1. Bread pakoras
Filled with spicy mashed potato that is wrapped in bread slices, which are then deep fried till golden and crisp, bread pakoras are an absolute delight to savour during the monsoons. Pair these snacks for the monsoon along with a steaming cup of tea and you have made yourself the perfect monsoon snack combination!
2. Vada pav
A popular snack and street food in the streets of Mumbai where it is eaten almost throughout the year, but having vada pav during the rains is a different kind of experience altogether. Featuring spicy potato fritters which are encased in soft pav, accompanied by a delicious and spicy garlic chutney, this is the perfect monsoon snack to munch on while watching the rain pour down.
3. Samosa
A pan India monsoon delicacy that is crispy, golden and delicious, samosas offers you the perfect kind of crunch in every bite. Prepared from spiced potatoes and peas, samosas are a monsoon staple in every Indian household. Pair it up with a tangy tamarind chutney for the perfect taste infusion.
4. Aloo tikki
Prepared from mashed potatoes and spices which are deep fried till golden and crisp, aloo tikkis make for the perfect kind of monsoon comfort food. A nostalgic snack for the monsoons that reminds most of us of our childhood, aloo tikkis are served with a side of sweet and spicy chutney for the perfect balance of flavours.
5. Pyaaz kachori
A proper monsoon delicacy that is spicy, flaky and absolutely delicious, pyaaz kachoris make for the perfect monsoon snack when served piping hot. Packed with the flavourful blend of spices and chillies, this rainy season snack is extremely easy and quick to prepare. Enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or pair it up with your favourite sabzi for the best kind of indulgence.
6. Kanda bhaji
An absolutely mouth watering snack for the rainy season that offers you a flavourful mix of onions, coriander, spices and walnuts, kanda bhajis make for the most wholesome kind of monsoon snack. The perfect dish to try when you are craving something spicy and delicious, kanda bhajis can be made easily with just a few common ingredients. Pair up with your favourite chutney for the perfect indulgence.
7. Parippu vada
Among the most popular tea time snacks in Kerala, masala or parippu vada is like a more crunchier version of the classic medu vada. A healthy monsoon snack, parippu vadas are prepared from tur dal which gives this snack the characteristic crunch and crispiness to it. A popular South Indian monsoons snack that is loved by all, parippu vadas and a steaming cuppa make for the perfect rainy day indulgence.
8. Mirchi bhaji
Featuring large green chilies that are stuffed with a spicy potato filling, and thereafter dipped in gram flour and deep fried till perfection, mirchi bhajis are an absolute delight to savour. A fiery snack that is mainly eaten in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, this makes for the perfect monsoon snack.