Monsoon is here and so is the craving for lip smacking food. This is the season when you can gorge on as many dishes as possible without fearing about getting out of options. So sit back on your comfortable couches while you feed on your favourite eatables and look out the window while it rains. Here is a list of such food that you can enjoy this monsoon:
1.Pakoras and chai : This one goes right on the top of my list. Aromatic, masala chai with crispy-fried pakoras are the quintessential monsoon snack. Nothing like having piping hot, homemade pakoras with chutney and chai!
2. Momos: This Himalayan delicacy is a must have if you are stuck somewhere while it is pouring. Delhi’s most loved snack is readily available in all nook and corners of the city. So just grab a plate of vegetable or chicken momos/ dimsums with tangy and spicy red chutney that accompanies it.
3. Bhutta: My most favourite quick snack is only available during monsoon. Boiled or baked on charcoal, rubbed with lemon juice and chat masala, bhutta or corn cob is a sure shot burst of flavours in ones mouth.
4. Thukpa: Another Himalayan or Tibetan dish on the list, Thukpa is a soup plus noodles with boiled vegetables or chicken is a perfect partner on a rainy day. Widely available in Chinese/North-eastern restaurants and eateries in Dilli haat and Majnu ka Tila, it is a must have dish.
5. Coffee and French fries: Going out on a date on a rainy day? This is your best pick. Order a cup of piping hot cappuccino or latte and French fries. Sit back and relax. You can enjoy the longest of conversations with these two.
6. Samosa with green chutney: Need a friend when lonely on a rainy day? Samosa with green chutney can be your best accomplice. This has been my favourite friend since school and I can vouch for it any given day.
7. Ghevar: Monsoon brings festivities. Teej, Rakshabandhan, Janamashtami or the Independence Day, we always look for something sweet and what’s better than good old khoya and dry fruit ghevar?
8. Chausa mango and Jamun : If you think you can slurp on mangoes only during summers, then you are mistaken. Chausa is the variety of mangoes that come exclusively during monsoon. They are big, juicy and flavourful. And who can forget jamuns during rain?
9. Malpua: These lovely Indian pancakes are the most delicious monsoon savouries. Made with wheat flour, milk, cream, dry fruits and dipped in sugar syrup, this will give you a taste of heaven in your mouth. Prepared especially during Janamashtami, malpuas are a perfect celebration dish.
10. Fried Shrimps: Shrimps are available in abundance during this time of the year in shallow waters in the sea. In coastal areas like Kerala it is deep fried off the tawa and is made with chillies and spices. Not very easily available in Delhi, but do try these if you ever visit the coastal areas during monsoon.
12. Paneer Tikka: Vegetarian delight, paneer tikka will never disappoint you. Gulp it down hot with mint chutney and you are good to go. Last on this list, this dish is a darling on rainy day.
Happy eating!