What is a Rainy-Day Board?
Think of it as India’s soulful answer to the Western charcuterie board. Instead of cured meats and foreign cheeses, the Rainy-Day Board is a generous, artfully arranged platter loaded with an assortment of beloved Indian snacks, both fried and baked,
spicy and sweet. It’s a celebration of textures and flavours, designed to be shared among friends and family or enjoyed in solitary bliss while watching the rain. The concept elevates the simple act of having chai and pakoras into a more curated, visually appealing experience that’s perfect for a cosy afternoon or a lively monsoon gathering. It’s not about following strict rules but about assembling your favourite tea-time companions in one delightful spread.
The Foundation: Fried Classics
No rainy-day spread is complete without the quintessential deep-fried treats that we all crave. These form the heart of your board. Start with an assortment of pakoras—crispy onion, soft potato, and vibrant spinach are must-haves. Add to that some classic, perfectly triangular samosas, their flaky pastry giving way to a spicy potato and pea filling. Don't forget regional favourites like Medu Vada from the south, which is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, or Batata Vada, the soul of Mumbai's Vada Pav, to bring that authentic, comforting warmth to your platter. These items are non-negotiable for that authentic monsoon feeling.
The Crunch Factor: Dry Snacks
To balance the richness of the fried items, a variety of dry, crunchy snacks is essential. These provide a different texture and are perfect for mindless munching between sips of chai. Incorporate classic tea-time biscuits like Parle-G or Marie, which are perfect for dunking. Add savoury, flaky mathris and spiral-shaped chaklis for a satisfying crunch. Roasted masala peanuts, spicy cashews, and a handful of roasted makhana (fox nuts) are also excellent additions that offer flavour without being too heavy. These elements ensure your board has longevity, staying crisp and delicious throughout your tea session.
A Touch of Sweetness
Every savoury celebration needs a sweet counterpoint. Including a few Indian sweets, or 'mithai,' can elevate your board from a simple snack platter to a truly festive spread. You don’t need large portions; bite-sized pieces work best. Consider adding a few mini Gulab Jamuns, some pieces of coconut barfi, or spongy Rasgullas. Even simpler options work wonderfully, such as sweet shakarpara (diamond-shaped fried dough) or the iconic jalebi, with its beautiful swirls soaking up sugar syrup. These sweet bites provide a delightful contrast to the spicy and savoury flavours on the board.
The Essential Dips
Chutneys are the soul of any Indian snack board, tying all the different elements together. At a minimum, you need two. First, a vibrant, spicy green chutney made from mint and coriander, which offers a fresh, sharp kick. Second, a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney, often made with dates, provides a perfect balance to the spice. For a creamier option, a simple raita or a cooling yogurt dip can also be included to soothe the palate after a particularly spicy bite. Serve them in small, attractive bowls placed strategically on the board.
Putting It All Together
The final step is the presentation. The beauty of a Rainy-Day Board lies in its appearance of abundance and variety. Choose a large wooden board, a traditional brass or steel thali, or even a large flat tray as your canvas. Start by placing the small bowls for your chutneys. Arrange the larger items like samosas and dhokla first, then fill in the gaps with the smaller items like pakoras, nuts, and chaklis. Try to create visual interest by grouping different colours and textures together. Don't aim for perfection; a little bit of beautiful chaos is part of the charm. The goal is to create a spread that looks as inviting as it tastes.
