As the scorching heat of summer gives way to the much-awaited monsoon showers, India comes alive with a sense of anticipation and nostalgia. With the arrival of the first raindrop, a symphony of emotions takes over, and the petrichor fills the air, transporting me to a place of peace and calm. The pitter-patter of raindrops on the roof, the fresh breeze rustling my hair, and the dew drops on plants evoke cherished memories and moments of tranquillity.
Oh, how I long to dance in the rain once again, like a carefree child!
Regional Monsoon Recipes: Savouring the Flavors of Different States
During this season, my appetite and cravings undergo a delightful transformation, yearning for hearty and comforting meals that provide warmth and contentment. Join me on a culinary journey through our beloved country, where we will savour the flavours and celebrate the beauty of the monsoon season.
Monsoon recipes from Southern India: Immunity-Boosting Porridge and Comforting Delights
In Kerala, the monsoon season coincides with the lunar month of Karkkidakam (Cancer), marked by the reading of the Ramayana in every household. One cherished monsoon dish in Kerala is Karkkidaka Kanji, a medicinal rice porridge made with a blend of herbs and spices that boosts immunity and promotes overall health. It is traditionally scooped up using a jackfruit leaf cone and paired with Astram, another delightful monsoon dish made with tubers.
Tamil Nadu welcomes the monsoons with piping hot mutton soup; it’s a hot and flavorful broth infused with aromatic spices, providing warmth and comfort. The Malnad region of Karnataka showcases the limited-period availability of “Soppu,” wild greens that are highly valued for their unique flavours and nutritional properties. In Andhra Pradesh, the abundance of rainwater leads to a fresh catch of fish, creating the perfect opportunity to savour the tangy Chepa Pulusu curry with its comforting spices and tamarind flavours.
For meat lovers, the succulent Boti Kebabs of Telangana, marinated in aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, are a monsoon speciality. Sandige of Karnataka, also known as Appadam, are crispy fritters made from sun-dried ingredients like rice, lentils, or vegetables, served as a delightfully crunchy accompaniment to meals.
Monsoon recipes from the West: Coastal Flavors and Nutty Curries
In the coastal region of Maharashtra, Bombil Bhujna takes centre stage during the monsoon season. This crispy delicacy features the iconic Bombil fish (commonly called Bombay Duck), marinated with spices and shallow-fried to perfection. Not only does it tantalise your taste buds, but it also offers health benefits like improved heart health and increased iron intake.
Rajasthan presents the traditional Singhade ki Sabzi (Water Chestnut Curry), which brings a unique nutty and earthy flavour to the table. This cooling dish is perfect for the monsoons and is packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Gujarat presents Patra, rolled colocasia leaves cooked with aromatic spices.
Monsoon recipes from the Eastern Region: Coastal Cuisine and Nutty Curries
Moving to West Bengal, the monsoon brings forth Khichudi with begun bhaja (fried eggplant slices) and ilish bhaja (fried hilsa fish). The combination of the comforting one-pot meal with these crispy accompaniments creates a delightful culinary experience. In Arunachal Pradesh, Pika Pila, a spicy pickle made with bamboo shoots and local herbs, adds a tangy twist to meals. Sikkim delights in Gundruk, fermented leafy greens known for their tangy flavour.
Odisha’s monsoon speciality, Bada Ghuguni, features fried lentil dumplings served with a tangy and spicy curry of yellow peas. And when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, Bihar offers a traditional delicacy called Sattu Paratha. These wholesome flatbreads, stuffed with a filling of roasted gram flour and spices, are a monsoon favourite that provide energy and comfort on rainy days.
Monsoon Recipes in the North: From Festive Desserts to Wholesome Khichdi
The monsoon season in India aligns with the month of Shravan, known for its auspicious festivals. Punjab celebrates the arrival of the monsoons in the plains with a delightful dessert made with Malpua (sweet pancake) and kheer (creamy rice pudding). Haryana offers “Bajra Khichdi,” a wholesome dish made with pearl millet and lentils. It is a nutritious and warming meal, often accompanied by yoghurt or ghee. The traditional delicacy of Bhutte Ka Kees from Madhya Pradesh celebrates the fresh and tender corn available during this time to create a sweet and savoury combination that captures the essence of monsoon flavours.
Rain and recipes :The monsoon magic of popularity and nostalgia
And who can forget the ubiquitous roasted bhutta (corn) sprinkled with lime juice and chaat masala, as well as the crispy pakode (fritters), enjoyed across the country during the rainy season? They offer a tangy, savoury treat that perfectly complements a steaming cup of ‘kadak chai’, the quintessential monsoon beverage loved by all. Its robust flavour, the soothing warmth it provides, and the nostalgic memories associated with sipping tea while watching the rain make it an essential part of monsoon experiences, evoking a sense of comfort, nostalgia, and popularity among people.
The monsoon season in India is a time of culinary delight, with each region offering its own array of flavoursome dishes. These delectable dishes hold a special place in our hearts not only because of their flavours but also because of the emotions associated with them. They evoke images of gatherings and fond memories of enjoying these dishes with their families and friends during rainy days, sitting indoors or under covered spaces, savouring the aroma and flavours while listening to the sound of raindrops.
So, what are you waiting for? Get those beautiful teacups out!
Enjoy a piping hot drink with some crispy pakodas and enjoy the monsoon!
One Response
That was a mouth watering read and also goose bumps – donno why but when I read the Chennai and Telangana cuisine I had a rush of good memories …
The ride on my bike during the monsoon was my favourite – the ride back home never ends without a stop over for hot and spicy soup and bajji’s…