Food during the Monsoon season is more about comfort, as one needs to dispel the gloomy and overcast skies and uplift one’s mood. The heavy downpours are the perfect setting for good food, especially, hot and spicy dishes. Hot soups and cups of tea, of course are favoured by all. Known for its heavy rains in the monsoons, Mumbai is just perfect.
Fried food is something most of us normally stay away from, but it is irresistible during this season. How can one not munch on bhajiyas or pakoras, along with endless cups of tea when it is pouring? Or even sabuana vadas or prawns rissois?
Bhutta with lots of lime squeezed on it and rock salt, is another monsoon favourite. People are in the mood to indulge, during the rains, as there is nothing better to do. Today, options galore are available for monsoon snacks to accompany varieties of tea, in restaurants as well. In fact, monsoons are being celebrated by foodies. Fries, nachos, sliders, the options are endless.
It is not as if pakoras and bhajiyas are the only options. The repertoire has expanded as taste buds have evolved. From arancini to chicken wings and dim sums to baos, one can relish various kinds of hot food.
While most of us enjoy the strong, spicy, masala chai, the health-conscious can opt for a nice cup of ginger, lemon-infused or minty green tea instead. There is so much to choose from nowadays, floral infused teas, included.
Soups are naturally preferred by many when it is raining, sometimes even as a complete meal. A broccoli almond soup, is creamy, but not heavy and the broccoli florets and almond flakes, add an interesting bite, while the sour cream provides a unique flavour dimension. A good choice for vegetarians and unusual too. The Lhaksa, a traditional coconut flavoured broth, with a dash of lemon, is tantalising for the palate and the spices appease the taste buds. Tom Yum is equally irresistible.
Nothing can be more comforting than a bowl of soupy noodles in this weather. An array of ramen bowls are on offer nowadays, across restaurants. And if seafood is your calling, relish the hearty, seafood stock, poached oyster meat and somen noodles from Korea, which are a delectable treat and filling too. The simple, Northern Thai khao soi noodles, are equally comforting.
A plate of dim sums can be comforting in any season and more so in the monsoons. Steamed sticky rice with water chestnuts, steamed sticky rice with chicken in lotus leaf, are my weakness.
We Indians, love our khichdi, anytime and more so, when the rains are lashing the window panes. The masala fada khichdi with kadhi is the ultimate meal this season. Spicy and deeply satisfying, the well-balanced flavours, set it apart. The variety of textures and flavours ensures a roller-coaster ride for the palate. Add an array of vegetables to your khichdi to make it more healthy or eat a simple one with masoor or moong dal paired with some pickle and papad.
Another irresistible treat in this weather is the paella de marisco, a Spanish dish which is fast gaining popularity across India. Cooked in a sea food broth, it comes with some more sea food alongside and is not-to-be-missed.
So, in order to feel better, when the sky is overcast over the next few days, sip cups of tea, gorge on hot pakoras and dim sums if you like. Indulge and give in to your monsoon cravings, guilt-free.
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