Roasted or Steamed Corn (Bhutta)
There's a reason the aroma of roasted bhutta fills the air during the monsoons. It’s a classic for a reason. Whether you prefer it roasted over coals or steamed until tender, corn is a fantastic choice. It's naturally sweet, satisfyingly chewy, and packed
with fibre, which aids digestion. A simple squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chaat masala is all it takes to turn this humble snack into a flavour-packed treat. Unlike its deep-fried counterparts, corn is low in fat and provides steady energy, making it the perfect guilt-free companion to a cup of chai.
Warm Sprout Chaat
Chaat is an integral part of Indian snacking, but it doesn't have to be unhealthy. A warm sprout chaat is an excellent way to get your fix. Using lightly cooked or blanched moong sprouts as a base provides a powerful dose of protein and fibre. During the monsoon, it's advisable to cook sprouts rather than eating them raw to avoid any potential bacterial contamination. Toss the warm sprouts with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and a splash of lemon juice. Season with a little rock salt and chaat masala for that tangy kick. It's crunchy, flavourful, and incredibly easy on the stomach.
Moong Dal Cheela
Think of a cheela as a savoury, protein-packed pancake. Made from a batter of soaked moong dal (split green gram), it's a wonderfully light yet filling option. Moong dal is gentle on the digestive system, which can be sluggish during the humid monsoon months. You can make the batter as simple or as flavourful as you like, adding finely chopped ginger, green chillies, and fresh coriander. Cooked on a non-stick pan with minimal oil, these golden crepes can be enjoyed plain or stuffed with grated paneer or finely chopped vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.
Baked Sweet Potato Wedges
When you crave the crispy satisfaction of fries, baked sweet potato wedges are a brilliant alternative. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, fibre, and have a natural sweetness that intensifies when baked. Simply cut a sweet potato into wedges, toss with a teaspoon of oil and your favourite spices—a little paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt works wonders—and bake until they are golden and crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. This method drastically cuts down on the oil used in deep-frying without sacrificing the comforting texture you’re looking for.
Roasted Makhana (Fox Nuts)
Makhana, or fox nuts, are the quiet heroes of healthy snacking. Incredibly light and airy, they have a satisfying crunch that can easily replace a packet of chips. Roasted makhana is low in calories and a good source of protein and calcium. To prepare, simply dry roast them in a pan on low heat for about 8-10 minutes until they become crisp. For extra flavour, you can add a teaspoon of ghee and toss them with salt, pepper, or your favourite spice mix. They are quick to make and can be stored in an airtight container for a ready-to-eat snack anytime.
A Bowl of Warm Soup
Nothing says comfort on a damp, chilly day quite like a bowl of warm soup. It's hydrating, nourishing, and incredibly easy to make. A simple tomato or mixed vegetable soup, seasoned with Indian spices like ginger, black pepper, and a pinch of turmeric, can be both delicious and immunity-boosting. Soups are light on the digestive system and help you stay warm from the inside out. They are a perfect way to increase your vegetable intake and stay hydrated, which is just as important during the monsoon as it is in summer.
