The moment monsoon showers arrive, cravings for samosas, kachoris and deep fried pakoras spike, but doctors and nutritionists keep warning that heavy fried food is exactly what the body struggles to handle during the rains. Rising humidity in this season also makes it easier for bacteria and infections to spread, which is why light, clean, home cooked food is considered the safest choice right now. The good news is that eating healthy does not have to mean eating bland, here are 6 snacks that keep the monsoon mood alive while still looking after your health.
Roasted corn tops the list
The bond between rain and roasted corn is nothing new. Corn roasted over coals and finished with a squeeze of lemon juice, black salt and red chilli powder does not just taste incredible, the antioxidants in it also help keep digestion on track. That combination of flavour and function is exactly why hot roasted corn remains one of the most trusted monsoon snacks.
Makhana bhel, light yet crunchy
For anyone looking for a low calorie snack, makhana is hard to beat. Roast the fox nuts in ghee until they turn crisp, then toss in finely chopped onion, tomato, green chilli, fresh coriander, a little chaat masala and a squeeze of lemon juice. What you get is a tangy, crunchy makhana bhel that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea on a rainy evening.
Oats or semolina chila
If a rainy evening calls for something warm and filling, an oats or semolina chila works well. The batter can be spiced up with black pepper, finely grated carrot and whatever spices you prefer. Served with mint chutney, it tastes even better, and it stays far lighter on the stomach than anything deep fried.
Chickpea chaat for lasting energy
A chaat made from black chana or white chickpeas, also called kabuli chana, is packed with protein. Mixing boiled chickpeas with cucumber, tomato, onion, lemon juice and roasted cumin powder creates a chaat that is not only tasty but also keeps you full for longer while supplying steady energy.
Baked or air fried sweet potato fries
Fans of fries can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Cut the sweet potato into strips, drizzle a little olive oil over them, sprinkle salt and peri peri masala, then bake them in an air fryer or oven. These fries are just as satisfying to eat, while also delivering a good dose of vitamin A and fibre.
Steamed snacks are the safest bet
Steamed options like veg momos or mini idlis are an excellent choice during the monsoon. Small semolina idlis finished with a curry leaf tempering make for a great example. These snacks stay light and digest easily, which lowers the risk of stomach trouble during the rainy season.
