Rainy days and snacks have a special connection. The sound of raindrops tapping on the windowpane creates a perfect peace and ambience for munching on delicious treats. However, as people's awareness of health issues grows, a growing number of them are choosing snacks without oil. In fact, eating oil-free snacks reduces calorie intake and also keeps the heart healthy.
In India, a variety of traditional dishes can be made without oil, especially during the monsoon. These snacks are not just healthy but also delightful to eat. This article explores seven such oil-free snacks that are perfect for a rainy day. Know about these easy-to-prepare monsoon snack options with some healthy twists.
1. Gujarati Khandvi
Khandvi is a popular Gujarati snack made from gram flour and yoghurt. To prepare this dish, you need to mix gram flour, yoghurt, and water to form a batter. Cook the batter on low heat until it thickens. Spread the batter in thin layers on a flat surface, allow it to cool, and then roll it up. For the tempering, dry roast mustard seeds, asafoetida, and green chilies. Sprinkle the tempering over the khandvi rolls along with grated coconut and coriander leaves. This snack is light, tangy, and perfect for a rainy day.
Also Read: Monsoon Food: What India Eats When It Rains
2. Steamed Veggie Momos
Momos are a popular snack originating from the Himalayan region. For oil-free momos, prepare a dough using flour and water. Roll out small discs and fill them with a mixture of finely chopped broccoli, bean sprouts, salt, and pepper. Fold the edges to form a pouch and steam the momos until cooked. These momos are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the vegetables, making them a healthy and satisfying snack.
3. Oats And Palak Dhokla
Dhokla is a traditional Gujarati snack. To make an oil-free version, mix powdered oats, semolina, yoghurt, green chili paste, and water to form a batter. Add chopped spinach to the batter. Just before steaming, add the fruit salt and mix gently. Pour the batter into a greased tray and steam for about 8 minutes. Cool and cut into diamond-shaped pieces. This dish is nutritious and filling, perfect for enjoying during the rainy season.
4. Daal Ki Chaat
Daal Ki Chaat is a tangy and spicy snack made from yellow moong dal. To prepare, mix parboiled moong dal with grated carrots, pomegranate seeds, chopped raw mangoes, coriander, and mint leaves. Season with chaat masala and lemon juice. Toss everything together for a fresh and vibrant chaat. This snack is rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for a rainy day.
5. Steamed Dahi Vada
Dahi Vada is a beloved Indian snack that can be made oil-free by steaming the vadas instead of frying them. Soak urad dal and moong dal for four hours, then grind them into a smooth batter with ginger, asafoetida, and salt. Spoon the batter into greased idli molds and steam for about 10 minutes. Let the vadas cool, then soak them in yoghurt and top with coriander chutney, tamarind chutney, and roasted cumin powder. This dish is refreshing and light, ideal for monsoon snacking.
6. Oil-Free Vada Pav
Vada Pav is a famous street food from Mumbai. For an oil-free version, make a mixture of mashed potatoes, ginger-green chili paste, coriander, lemon juice, salt, turmeric powder, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Form the mixture into small patties. For the coating, mix gram flour with turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Coat the patties and air fry at 180°C for 15 minutes. Serve the vadas with pav (buns) for a delicious and healthy treat.
7. Baked Potato Crisps
Potato crisps are a popular snack that can be made oil-free by baking instead of frying. Thinly slice a potato and season with crushed black pepper and salt. Arrange the slices on a baking tray and bake in a microwave in 30-second increments until they are crispy. Let them cool before enjoying them. These crisps are crunchy and satisfying, perfect for munching on a rainy day.
These oil-free snacks offer a healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks, making them ideal for rainy days. They are easy to prepare and delicious, ensuring that you can enjoy your monsoon munching without guilt. Incorporate these recipes into your diet for healthy and tasty snacking.