Monsoons in India are synonymous with cosy evenings, the sound of rain, and of course, weekend parties with friends. There’s something magical about sipping your favourite drink while watching the rain pour down outside. But what’s a drink without the perfect chakhna? Finding the right snacks to complement your beverages can elevate your monsoon party to the next level. However, the damp monsoon air can often make these snacks soggy, ruining their crunch. Don't worry, though – we’ve got you covered. Here’s a guide to some of the best chakhna options and tips on how to keep them crisp and delicious throughout your party.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a versatile and easy-to-make snack that pairs wonderfully with almost any drink. You can go classic with just salt and butter, or spice things up with some masala, cheese, or caramel. To ensure your popcorn stays fresh and crunchy during the monsoon, store it in airtight containers immediately after popping. You can also reheat it briefly in the oven or microwave before serving to revive its crispness.
Nachos
Nachos are a crowd favourite and can be customised with various toppings like cheese, salsa, beans, and jalapeños. They are perfect for dipping and sharing. To prevent nachos from getting soggy, keep the chips separate from the wet toppings until just before serving. Storing the chips in an airtight container and reheating them in the oven for a few minutes can also help maintain their crunch.
Khakhra
Khakhra, a Gujarati delicacy, is a thin, crispy flatbread made from whole wheat flour. It's a healthy and delightful snack that goes well with chutneys, pickles, or even plain yogurt. To keep khakhras crunchy, store them in airtight containers with moisture-absorbing packets. If they lose their crispiness, you can lightly roast them on a tawa before serving.
Roasted Chana
Roasted chana, or chickpeas, are a nutritious and protein-packed snack that's perfect for munching. They're seasoned with spices like chaat masala, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavour. Keep roasted chana in airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing moisture. If they start to soften, you can re-roast them in a dry pan for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Banana Chips
Banana chips are a popular snack in many Indian households, especially in the southern states. They are crunchy, salty, and have a unique flavour that pairs well with various drinks. To keep banana chips fresh, store them in airtight containers with silica gel packets. If they become soggy, a quick bake in the oven can help bring back their crisp texture.
Tip for Keeping Snacks Crunchy During Monsoon
The monsoon air can make it challenging to keep snacks crisp. Here are some tips to preserve their crunchiness:
Airtight Containers: Always store your snacks in airtight containers to prevent moisture from getting in. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are particularly effective.
Moisture-Absorbing Packets: Add moisture-absorbing packets (like silica gel) to your snack containers. These help absorb any excess moisture in the air, keeping your snacks dry and crisp.
Reheat Before Serving: If your snacks start to get soggy, a quick reheat in the oven or a dry pan can help restore their crunch.
Serve Immediately: Try to prepare and serve your snacks as close to party time as possible to ensure they remain fresh and crunchy.