Across India, the arrival of the monsoon is celebrated with culinary delights, showcasing the country's gastronomic heritage. These monsoon specialties not only tantalise your tastebuds, but also provide a glimpse into the rich culinary diversity of India. From the crunchy Parippu Vadas of the South to the ancient Yaje beverage of the North, the monsoon season is a time when regional specialties take centrestage, creating a visual and sensory feast.
So, the next time there are showers, indulge in these delicious treats to celebrate the season.
1. Bombil Bhujna (Maharashtra)
Bombil, also known as ‘Bombay Duck’, is a staple in Maharashtrian cuisine. Bombil Bhujna is a spicy, tangy dish made with crispy fried Bombay duck, flavoured with an array of spices. It's the perfect accompaniment to a rainy day, often enjoyed with steamed rice and a dash of squeezed lemon.
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3. Khasta Kachori (Rajasthan)
Rajasthan’s Khasta Kachori is a beloved snack, perfect for the monsoon. These deep-fried, flaky pastries are stuffed with a spicy mixture of lentils and aromatic spices. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are best enjoyed with tangy tamarind chutney and hot tea.
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4. Ulava Charu (Andhra Pradesh)
Ulava Charu is a traditional Andhra Pradesh delicacy made from horse gram lentils. This thick, tangy soup is slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned with tamarind, spices, and jaggery. It’s a comforting dish often served with steamed rice or ragi mudde (millet balls).
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5. Charolia (Uttarakhand)
From the hilly regions of Uttarakhand comes Charolia, a nutritious dish made from buckwheat flour. These steamed dumplings are flavoured with a blend of local spices and herbs. Light yet filling, Charolia is a healthy monsoon treat that pairs well with a bowl of hot soup or curry.
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6. Paruppu Vada (Kerala)
Parippu Vada, or lentil fritters, are a quintessential monsoon snack in Kerala. Made from a mixture of chana dal (split chickpeas) and spices, these crispy vadas are deep-fried to golden perfection. They are best enjoyed with a cup of strong, aromatic Kerala tea.
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7. Ghewar (Rajasthan)
Ghewar is a traditional Rajasthani sweet that is particularly popular during the monsoon and festive seasons. This honeycomb-like dessert is made from flour, soaked in sugar syrup, and often topped with rabri (thickened milk). It’s a delightful treat that melts in your mouth, leaving a sweet aftertaste.
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8. Lukter (Arunachal Pradesh)
Lukter is a unique monsoon delicacy from Arunachal Pradesh. It consists of dried meat, typically beef or pork, which is spiced with local herbs and smoked to perfection. This savoury snack is perfect for munching on while enjoying the misty, rain-soaked landscapes of Northeast India.
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9. Shorshe Ilish (West Bengal)
Shorshe Ilish is an iconic Bengali dish made with hilsa fish and mustard paste. The rich, pungent mustard sauce complements the tender, flavourful fish, creating a dish that is both robust and comforting. It’s a monsoon favorite, often served with steamed rice.
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10. Aamat (Chhattisgarh)
Aamat is a traditional Chhattisgarhi soup made with bamboo shoots, spices, and herbs. This tangy, aromatic soup is slow-cooked to allow the flavours to meld together, resulting in a dish that is both nourishing and delicious. It’s a unique monsoon specialty that reflects the tribal culinary traditions of the region.
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