If you have grown up in Delhi, or around the capital as a fan of monsoon, you would know how short-lived the season is, and how utterly important it is to make the most of it. Long drives to India Gate or Murthal may sound like a good idea. You and your bunch of friends, a good playlist mixed with the sound of rain clattering on your windows sounds enjoyable until you see your GPS filled with vermillion lines. It is only in monsoon that you can watch your mates turn into monsters in a matter of minutes. The traffic is a nightmare, the waterlogging also appears to be the work of Satan, and don’t even get us started on the seepage issues. How then does one identify as a ‘fan’ of monsoon, hold our bhutta and allow us to get started with the list of foods that make monsoons truly special in North India. And yes, we have kept pakodas out of the list, simply because there is so much more to savour and celebrate.
1. Bhutta
Roasted corn cobs, rubbed with lemon juice and chaat masala, a classic snack that makes its appearance only around monsoon. Bhutta can be easily found on the streets, especially in peak monsoon seasons like July and August. The vendors, sit on roadsides with their makeshift roasting pits, wherein they roast the corn cobs, dress it up with masala and lemon juice and serve it hot to the customers,
2. Kachori
Since everything, hot, greasy and crispy is welcome in the nippy weather, kachoris also become super popular around monsoon. These, crispy deep-fried pastries often stuffed with a spicy lentil or onion filling is served with either chutney or an even spicier sabzi.
3. Ghewar
Another monsoon sensation, which just like bhutta, is around only for like two-three months of monsoon. And there is a reason for that. Since this honey-comb-like dessert needs moisture to keep its base spongy yet firm, it is difficult to make in other seasons. So make the most of it, while it is around.
4. Chicken Soup
Can’t step out to enjoy the lovely weather, fix yourself a hearty bowl of chicken soup and watch the pitter-patter curled up inside your blanket. There are only a few things as comforting as a well-made chicken soup. Whether you like to keep it clear or creamy, that is your choice.
5. Chicken Tikka
You don’t need a reason or specific season to relish a plate of this classic chicken starter, but since monsoon calls for all things hot and spicy, the popularity of chicken tikka also skyrockets during this time. Chicken tikka, is a classic Indian snack in which, boneless chicken pieces are first marinated and then roasted in tandoor. Chicken tikka is best enjoyed with mint chutney. Sprinkle some chaat masala and squeeze some lime juice on top of your tikkas for an ultimate treat.
6. Maggi
‘Barish wali maggi’ is an EMOTION, don’t believe us. Just watch all the significantly longer queues outside the Maggi points of the capital. Maggi or instant noodles do not need very long to cook, but they can be spruced up in various ways (think: butter, chicken, cream, and corns).
7. Momos
Steamed, fried, tandoori, schezwan, pan-fried, kothe, there are options galore in which you can enjoy this dumpling snack. How about making some at home to enjoy this weather. Pair it with hot chutney and you are good to go.