Monsoon is all about indulging in the best of snacks the world has to offer, and of course that means fried snacks above everything else. And when it comes to fried snacks, the state of Karnataka has some of the best to offer. Yes, most of these snacks are fried delicacies from across Karnataka—but at the same time, these are also monsoon-special snacks that are simply loaded with local flavours. Here is what you need to know about the monsoon-special snacks from Karnataka.
Karnataka is a state with diverse geography and culture, which is reflected in its cuisine. So, Karnataka's snacks often incorporate locally sourced ingredients like coconut, jaggery, rice, lentils, and a wide array of spices. These ingredients are abundantly available in the region and add a distinctive taste to the snacks. What makes most of these snacks extra special is the use of aromatic spices is a hallmark of Karnataka's cuisine.
Wondering what these extraordinary snacks from Karnataka are and how they can be made with utter ease? Here is everything you need to know about eight such brilliant representations of Karnataka’s monsoon-special snacks.
Video Credit: YouTube/Hebbars Kitchen
Maddur Vada
Maddur Vada is a crispy and flavorful delight made with a blend of rice flour, semolina, all-purpose flour, onions, green chilies, and curry leaves. These deep-fried vadas offer a tantalizing taste. The secret to their uniqueness lies in the touch of asafoetida and the perfect balance of spices. Enjoyed with coconut chutney or a hot cup of filter coffee, Maddur Vada is a must-try during the rainy season, adding warmth and joy to your monsoon cravings.
Goli Bajje
Goli Bajje, also known as Mangalorean Bajje, is a beloved monsoon snack made with a simple batter of all-purpose flour, yogurt, and spices like ginger and green chilies. These fluffy, golden fritters are fried to perfection. The addition of baking soda gives them their signature airy texture. Served hot with coconut chutney or sambar, Goli Bajje is a delightful treat to relish while watching the rain, bringing comfort and joy during the monsoon season.
Mirchi Bajji
Mirchi Bajji is a spicy and delicious treat and a close cousin of Rajasthani Mirchi Vadas. Prepared using large green chilies, dipped in a besan (gram flour) batter infused with turmeric and spices, these fritters are deep-fried to crispy perfection. The contrasting flavors of the mildly spicy chilies and the flavorful batter make it an irresistible snack. Served with coconut chutney or tomato sauce, Mirchi Bajji adds a burst of flavor to the rainy days, making it a popular choice among snack lovers in Karnataka.
Nipattu
Nipattu is a savory and crunchy snack that delights the taste buds. Made with a combination of rice flour, gram flour, roasted peanuts, and spices like red chili powder and cumin, these thin, disc-shaped treats are deep-fried to a golden crispness. The addition of curry leaves and asafoetida enhances the flavor profile, making Nipattu a perfect companion to a steaming cup of tea during the rainy season.
Mysore Bonda
Mysore Bonda is a delightful and fluffy snack that is now popular all over the world. Prepared with urad dal batter, infused with ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves, these deep-fried dumplings offer a burst of flavors. The fermentation of the batter lends a unique lightness to the bondas, making them irresistible. Served hot with coconut chutney or sambar, Mysore Bonda is a popular rainy-day treat, loved by both locals and visitors, bringing warmth and joy to the monsoon season.
Patrode
Patrode, made with colocasia leaves smeared with a spiced rice and lentil paste, is quite like Gujarati Patra. Rolled and steamed to perfection, these steamed dumplings offer a burst of flavors and textures. The aromatic blend of grated coconut, tamarind, and jaggery complements the earthy taste of the colocasia leaves. Served with coconut chutney, Patrode is a traditional monsoon delight that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Karnataka, perfect for a rainy day indulgence.
Sandige
Also known as Vadagam in some regions, Sandige is made with various ingredients like rice, lentils, and vegetables mixed with spices and sun-dried to preserve them. Once dried, they can be fried or roasted, resulting in crispy and flavorful chips. These monsoon treats add a delightful crunch to any meal and are a delicious way to preserve seasonal produce for enjoyment throughout the year.
Kodubale
Kodubale is made with rice flour, roasted chana dal, and a blend of spices like red chili powder, asafoetida, and cumin, these ring-shaped treats are deep-fried to perfection. The dough is intricately shaped by hand, giving Kodubale its unique appearance. Its irresistible spicy and savory flavor makes it a popular accompaniment to hot beverages during the rainy season. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed alone, Kodubale is a delightful way to embrace the joys of monsoon.