Roasted or Steamed Corn (Bhutta)
A quintessential monsoon snack, bhutta, or corn on the cob, is as healthy as it is iconic. Whether you prefer it roasted over charcoal and rubbed with lime and salt or steamed and tossed into a flavourful chaat, corn is a fantastic choice. It is rich
in fibre, which aids digestion, and contains antioxidants and essential vitamins like Vitamin C. This snack is naturally filling and offers a satisfying, warm bite on a cool, rainy evening, making it a perfect alternative to greasy packaged crisps.
Spiced Sweet Potato Chaat
Sweet potatoes, or shakarkandi, are a powerhouse of nutrients. When roasted and diced into a chaat with spices, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of chaat masala, they become a delicious and healthy treat. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and fibre, which are important for boosting immunity and maintaining digestive health. This naturally sweet and savoury snack provides steady energy and can help satisfy cravings without the unhealthy fats found in fried foods.
Moong Dal Cheela
For a snack that feels more like a mini-meal, the moong dal cheela is an excellent option. These savoury pancakes are made from a batter of soaked split green gram (moong dal) and are packed with plant-based protein and dietary fibre. You can enhance their nutritional value by adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, or carrots to the batter. Cooked with minimal oil, a warm cheela served with mint chutney is light on the stomach, easy to digest, and helps keep you feeling full and energetic.
Roasted Makhana (Fox Nuts)
If you're craving something crunchy, roasted makhana is one of the healthiest options available. These puffed lotus seeds are low in calories and fat but high in protein, magnesium, and antioxidants. Simply dry roast them in a pan until crisp, then toss with a tiny amount of ghee, black pepper, and salt for flavour. Makhana satisfies the need for a crunchy, savoury snack and can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, making it a convenient go-to option.
Warm Vegetable Soup
Nothing provides comfort on a damp, chilly evening quite like a bowl of hot soup. A mixed vegetable soup made with carrots, tomatoes, beans, and mushrooms provides essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration. Soups are an excellent way to increase your vegetable intake and boost your immunity during a season known for colds and infections. For an added immune-boosting kick, consider a peppery mushroom broth or a broth spiked with ginger and crushed garlic. Avoid adding cream to keep it light and healthy.
Steamed or Baked Alternatives
Many traditional fried snacks like samosas, cutlets, and pakoras can be made healthier with different cooking methods. Try making baked vegetable cutlets or use an air-fryer for pakoras to get that satisfying crunch with significantly less oil. Steamed snacks like dhokla, made from fermented batter, are also a light, fluffy, and nutritious option. These methods allow you to enjoy the familiar flavours of your favourite monsoon treats without the guilt and digestive discomfort associated with deep-frying.
