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As the raindrops tap against the windowpanes and the earth transforms into a lush green canvas, the monsoon season in India brings a delightful array of fresh herbs that add a burst of unique flavours to traditional Indian dishes. These monsoon herbs not only enhance the taste but also offer a plethora of health benefits. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the art of cooking with monsoon herbs and discover how they can elevate your favourite Indian recipes.
1. Mint: The Cool Quencher
With its refreshing aroma and cooling properties, mint is a monsoon herb that can instantly invigorate your taste buds. It's a staple in Indian chutneys, raitas, and beverages like the famous Mint Chutney and Mint Lemonade. Besides its culinary uses, mint is known for its digestive properties, making it an excellent after-meal choice.
Try infusing mint into your biryanis or for a refreshing twist. You can also blend mint leaves into smoothies for a healthy and minty kick. And let's not forget the classic Mint-Coriander Chutney that pairs perfectly with kebabs, samosas, and pakoras.
2. Coriander: The Versatile Herb
Coriander, also known as cilantro, is one of the most versatile monsoon herbs used in Indian cuisine. Its fresh, citrusy flavour complements a wide range of dishes. From dals to curries, salads to chutneys, coriander is an essential ingredient.
One of the all-time favourites is Dhania Chicken, a dish where succulent pieces of chicken are marinated in a coriander-based sauce and cooked to perfection. You can also make a zesty Coriander Chutney or add finely chopped coriander leaves to your favourite chaats for an added burst of freshness.
3. Fenugreek: The Nutritious Green
Fenugreek, or methi, is a monsoon herb that packs a nutritional punch. It is rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals, making it a popular choice for promoting good health. Methi leaves can be used in parathas, curries, and lentil dishes to add a unique, slightly bitter taste.
A delicious and hearty Methi Malai Murg brings together the goodness of fenugreek leaves and creamy chicken. For vegetarians, Methi Aloo is a classic combination of potatoes and fenugreek leaves cooked to perfection with spices.
4. Curry Leaves: The Aromatic Wonder
Curry leaves are an essential ingredient in South Indian cooking, but their use extends to various Indian cuisines. They impart a distinct aroma and flavour to dishes like rasam, sambar, and various vegetable stir-fries.
Treat yourself to a flavorful Curry Leaves Rice, where curry leaves are sautéed with spices and mixed with cooked rice. For a delightful snack, curry leaves can be fried to make crispy and aromatic Curry Leaves Fritters.
5. Holy Basil (Tulsi): The Sacred Herb
Apart from its spiritual significance, holy basil or tulsi is celebrated for its medicinal properties. It has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities that boost immunity and promote well-being.
Incorporate the goodness of tulsi into your cooking with Tulsi Tea, a soothing brew made by steeping fresh tulsi leaves in hot water. Tulsi can also be used in a variety of Indian dishes to add a hint of herbal aroma.
6. Dill: The Unconventional Delight
Dill, with its delicate and unique flavour, is an underutilised monsoon herb in Indian cuisine. It pairs wonderfully with yoghurt and can elevate the taste of simple dishes like Dill Raita. In some regions, dill leaves are used to prepare traditional fish curries, adding a distinctive taste to the dish.
Embrace the creativity and experiment with dill in your recipes to discover its hidden potential.
7. Oregano: The Italian Intruder
While not native to India, oregano has made its way into Indian kitchens and has been embraced by fusion cuisine enthusiasts. With its strong and robust flavour, oregano complements pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.
For an Indian twist, try adding oregano to your marinades for tandoori dishes or sprinkle it on roasted vegetables. The fusion of Italian and Indian flavours can be a delightful surprise.
As the monsoon showers bless the land, they also bring forth a bounty of fresh and aromatic herbs that elevate Indian dishes to new heights. Mint, coriander, fenugreek, curry leaves, holy basil, dill, and even oregano are some of the monsoon herbs that can add a burst of unique flavours to your culinary creations. So, this rainy season, embrace the magic of these herbs and infuse your favourite Indian dishes with the essence of the monsoon. Happy cooking!
