The Science of Rainy Day Cravings
There's a reason the pitter-patter of rain makes you yearn for something fried and spicy. The drop in sunlight can lead to lower levels of serotonin, our natural mood-booster, making us crave comforting foods that give us a lift. Hot, crunchy snacks provide
a satisfying sensory contrast to the damp, cool weather. This craving is deeply woven into our culture and memories, making certain foods an inseparable part of the rainy season.
Chai and Pakora: The Undisputed Classic
It’s a pairing that is practically synonymous with the Indian monsoon. Across the country, the moment rain begins to fall, the ritual of brewing a pot of spicy adrak chai and frying up a batch of pakoras begins. These gram-flour fritters—whether made with onion, potato, spinach, or paneer—are the ultimate comfort snack. The tradition, which became widespread in the 20th century, is more than just a habit; it's a sensory experience that brings families together, filling homes with the sounds and smells of monsoon bliss.
Bhutta: Smoky, Spicy Street-Side Gold
The smoky aroma of corn on the cob roasting over hot coals is a tell-tale sign that the monsoon has arrived. Known as bhutta, this humble street food is a seasonal favourite, especially in North India and along city promenades like Mumbai's Marine Drive. After being roasted until lightly charred, the cob is generously rubbed with a mixture of lemon juice, salt, and chilli powder. This simple combination of tangy, salty, and spicy flavours on the sweet, juicy corn captures the very essence of a rainy evening.
Samosa and Kachori: The Flaky Favourites
When the rain is heavy and the craving calls for something more substantial, samosas and kachoris are often the answer. The beloved triangular pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas is a universal comfort food in India. Its flaky exterior gives way to a warm, savoury filling that is perfect for a chilly day. Similarly, the dal or pyaaz kachoris of Rajasthan and North India offer a round, crispy delight with a flavourful punch, best enjoyed with a side of tangy tamarind chutney.
Pazham Pori: Kerala’s Sweet Answer to Rain
In Kerala, the monsoon is greeted with a sweet treat known as pazham pori. Also called Ethakka Appam, these are fritters made from ripe Nendran plantains, which are sliced, dipped in a lightly sweetened flour batter, and deep-fried until golden. The result is a snack that’s crispy on the outside while soft, warm, and sweet on the inside. It’s the perfect companion to a hot cup of tea or strong filter coffee, a combination that Keralites cherish as they watch the downpour.
A Journey Through Regional Delights
Every region in India has its own unique way of celebrating the rain through food. In Maharashtra, the go-to snack is Kanda Bhaji, crispy onion fritters often stuffed into a pav. In West Bengal, a comforting bowl of moong dal khichuri is often served with Beguni, or fried brinjal slices. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, a steaming bowl of Thukpa, a hearty noodle soup, provides the perfect warmth against the rain-swept hills. These dishes showcase the diverse culinary landscape of India, united by a shared love for comfort food during the monsoon.
