1. Roasted Bhutta (Corn on the Cob)
A quintessential monsoon sight on the streets of India, roasted bhutta is as healthy as it is nostalgic. The natural sweetness of the corn, combined with a smoky char from roasting over an open flame, makes for an irresistible snack. This classic requires
zero oil. The harvested corn is roasted until the kernels are tender and slightly blackened. It is then typically rubbed with a mixture of lemon juice, salt, and red chilli powder for a tangy, spicy kick that perfectly complements the rainy weather. As a bonus, corn is a good source of fibre and antioxidants, making this a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies cravings for something warm and flavourful. It’s a simple, wholesome choice that captures the essence of the season.
2. Steamed Dhokla
Hailing from Gujarat, dhokla is a beloved snack across the country, known for its soft, spongy texture and savoury taste. It's a prime example of a delicious dish that relies on steaming, a cooking method that eliminates the need for deep-frying. The batter, made from fermented gram flour (besan), is steamed to perfection, resulting in a light, airy cake. While a traditional tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves uses a small amount of oil, the main preparation is entirely oil-free. Dhokla is not only light on the stomach but also rich in protein from the gram flour. It’s a wonderfully satisfying snack to pair with a hot cup of chai on a cool, rainy afternoon, offering comfort without the heaviness of fried foods.
3. Moong Dal Chilla
Moong dal chilla, a savoury pancake made from split yellow lentils, is another fantastic minimal-oil option. The batter is prepared by soaking and grinding moong dal into a smooth paste, which can be spiced with ginger, green chillies, and other seasonings. These thin, crepe-like pancakes are cooked on a non-stick pan with just a hint of oil or ghee to prevent sticking. You can stuff them with grated paneer, chopped onions, and tomatoes for a more filling snack. Chillas are packed with protein and are easy to digest, making them an excellent choice for an evening snack. They offer a delightful crispness and flavour that can rival any fried treat, proving that healthy can also be incredibly delicious.
4. Sprout Chaat
For those who crave the tangy, spicy explosion of flavours that chaat offers, a sprout-based version is the perfect healthy monsoon alternative. This no-cook or minimal-cook snack is a powerhouse of nutrients. It typically uses a base of boiled moong sprouts, mixed with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and perhaps some boiled potato. The dressing is what brings it to life: a mix of chaat masala, lemon juice, and perhaps a touch of tamarind chutney. During the monsoon, it is recommended to lightly steam or boil the sprouts to eliminate any risk of bacteria. This chaat is refreshing, crunchy, and satisfyingly complex in its flavours, hitting all the right notes without any frying involved.
5. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges (Shakarkandi)
Instead of deep-fried potato snacks, consider the humble sweet potato, or shakarkandi. When baked, it offers a delicious and much healthier alternative. Simply cut sweet potatoes into wedges or thin slices, toss them with a tiny amount of oil and your favourite spices—like chaat masala, chilli powder, and a pinch of salt—and bake until they are tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. You can also make a simple chaat by dicing boiled or roasted sweet potatoes and mixing them with lemon juice and spices. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fibre, and their natural sweetness provides a comforting flavour that is perfect for a cozy, rainy day. It’s a simple swap that delivers big on both taste and health benefits.
