The Maharashtrian Classic: Kanda Bhaji
No monsoon snack list is complete without mentioning the undisputed king of rainy day foods in Western India: Kanda Bhaji. These are not just any onion pakoras; they are a celebration of crispiness. The magic lies in their texture—thinly sliced onions
are mixed with gram flour (besan), ajwain, and spices, using little to no water. The moisture from the onions themselves helps create a thick batter that, when deep-fried, results in exceptionally crunchy and flavourful fritters. The sweetness of the onion combined with the savoury, spiced coating is what makes every bite so addictive. Paired with a spicy green chutney and a steaming cup of tea, Kanda Bhaji offers a comforting crunch that perfectly complements the sound of falling rain.
The Street-Side Favourite: Roasted Bhutta
The smoky aroma of roasted corn on the cob, or bhutta, is synonymous with monsoon street corners across North India. It’s a simple, rustic pleasure that is both nostalgic and delicious. The process is a performance in itself: vendors fan hot coals, expertly turning the corn until the kernels are charred in spots and beautifully cooked. The real flavour explosion comes right after, when the hot cob is vigorously rubbed with a slice of lemon dipped in a mixture of salt, red chilli powder, and chaat masala. This tangy, spicy, and smoky combination is a true assault on the senses in the best way possible. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks but delivers just as much satisfaction, making it an essential part of the rainy season experience.
The Southern Spice Bomb: Mirchi Bajji
For those who like their snacks with a bit of a kick, the Mirchi Bajji from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is a must-try. These are large, mild green chillies that are slit, sometimes de-seeded, and often filled with a tangy stuffing of tamarind, cumin, and other spices. The stuffed chilli is then dipped into a thick gram flour batter and deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. The result is a thrilling combination of a crispy, savoury shell, a soft and slightly spicy chilli, and a flavourful stuffing inside. Often served on the streets cut into pieces and topped with chopped onions and a squeeze of lemon, this snack is a fiery and flavourful delight that warms you up from the inside out on a cool, wet day.
Kerala’s Sweet Delight: Pazham Pori
Not all monsoon snacks need to be savoury. From the lush landscapes of Kerala comes Pazham Pori, a sweet and comforting fritter that is a beloved tea-time snack. The recipe uses a specific type of ripe plantain called 'Nendram Pazham', which is known for its firm texture and subtle sweetness. The plantains are sliced lengthwise, dipped in a simple batter made of plain flour (maida), a touch of rice flour for crispness, a little sugar, and a pinch of turmeric for that lovely golden hue. When deep-fried, the outside becomes light and crispy while the banana inside turns soft, sweet, and almost melts in your mouth. Pazham Pori offers a delightful contrast to the spicier snacks and is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy while watching the rain.
The Universal Comfort: Samosa
The samosa is perhaps the most universally loved Indian snack, and its appeal skyrockets during the monsoon. While available everywhere, its classic form with a spiced potato and pea filling is a rainy day staple. The magic of a good samosa is in its contrasts: the flaky, crispy pastry giving way to a soft, steaming, and flavourful filling of mashed potatoes, peas, and a blend of spices like garam masala and dried mango powder. Every region has its own subtle variation, from the cauliflower-filled 'Shingara' in Bengal to different fillings across the country. Making them at home allows you to get the pastry just right and the filling perfectly spiced to your liking. A plate of hot samosas with tamarind and mint chutney is more than a snack; it's a national rainy day tradition.
