AKSHAY MEHNDIRATTA - MONSOON MAGIC: EXPLORING REGIONAL STREET FOODS IN INDIA

Akshay Mehndiratta - In India, the monsoon season is a time for joy and refreshment. A wonderful metamorphosis happens as soon as the first showers fall on the dry land. The surroundings fill with a wonderful perfume as the sceneries turn luxuriantly green and the air becomes fresh. The monsoon season delivers spectacular natural beauty as well as a variety of mouthwatering street dishes that are both enticing to the taste buds and comforting to the spirit. This blog explores some of the most delicious regional street dishes that perfectly reflect the flavour of India's monsoon season with the help of our special guest, Akshaymehndiratta.

1. Bhutta (Grilled Corn)

When we think about the monsoon in India, the first thing that springs to mind is eating roasted corn cobs, or "bhutta," as they are known there. When Akshaymehndiratta thinks back to his early years, he fondly remembers ambling about the streets and enjoying the smoky flavours of charred maize that had been seasoned with a little salt, lemon, and chilli pepper. Everyone of all ages enjoys this simple pleasure, which you absolutely must try during the monsoon season.

2. Pakoras (Fritters)

During the monsoon, pakoras are the definition of comfort food. These delicious fritters are available in a variety of flavours, including crunchy onion pakoras and mouth watering potato, paneer, and spinach varieties. Akshay Mehndiratta remembers eating hot pakoras with mint chutney while sipping a steamy cup of masala chai and seeing the rain outside. Your taste senses will surely dance with delight when you consume these delectable delicacies.

3. Vada Pav

Vada Pav is a well-known street cuisine that originated in Mumbai and has won the hearts of many Indians. This tasty snack, which includes a hot potato fritter (vada) sandwiched inside a soft bread (pav) and served with green chutney and garlic chutney, is a favourite of Akshay Mehndiratta's. Vada Pav is a mouthwatering monsoon snack because of its flavorful blend of spicy, sour, and soft textures.

4. Samosas

Another popular monsoon treat is samosas, which have a delicious potato interior and a golden-crisp crust. The aroma of freshly fried samosas billowing over the streets during a downpour, according to Akshay Mehndiratta, is a unique sensation. It is preferable to pair these triangular treats with mint-coriander or tamarind chutney.

5. Jhalmuri

Jhalmuri, a spicy puffed rice snack that originated in Kolkata, is a prime example of the variety of Indian street cuisine. Akshaymehndiratta enjoys the crunch of Jhalmuri when it's mixed with a variety of peanuts, diced vegetables, and a hot masala blend. This mouthwatering dessert is not only delectable but also a healthy and energising monsoon snacking choice.

6. Bhajiya Pav

Bhajiya Pav is a lesser-known yet delightful street food that Akshaymehndiratta recommends trying. It consists of mixed vegetable fritters (bhajiya) served with soft bread rolls (pav) and green chutney. The contrast of the hot and crispy bhajia with the pillowy pav creates an explosion of flavours in your mouth.

7. Rasgulla

Monsoon in India is incomplete without a mention of desserts. Rasgulla, a popular Bengali sweet, steals the spotlight with its spongy texture and sweet syrup. Akshay Mehndiratta shares that enjoying a chilled rasgulla during a monsoon evening is the perfect way to conclude a satisfying street food experience

8. Pani Puri

Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka in different parts of India, is a beloved monsoon treat that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts all over the country. Akshay Mehndiratta shares his excitement for this delightful snack, which consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a tangy and spicy tamarind water, chickpeas, potatoes, and an assortment of chutneys. The burst of flavours and the unique combination of textures make Pani Puri an unforgettable monsoon street food experience.

Conclusio

Monsoon in India is not only a season of rain but also a culinary celebration that brings people together over a shared love for street food. With Akshaymehndiratta's recommendations, we hope you venture into the local streets and savour these monsoon magic delights. Each region in India has its own unique street food culture, and the diversity of flavours is a true testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. So, grab an umbrella, put on your rain boots, and embark on a flavorful adventure as you explore the regional street foods of India during this enchanting monsoon season. Happy munching!