It goes without saying that monsoons make us hungrier. The grey skies, the rhythmic sound of raindrops, and the cool breeze instantly make us long for something comforting to eat. And what better than a plate of spicy, crunchy snacks fresh out of the kadhai to go with that weather? Of course, you can always order your favourites from a food delivery app for instant comfort without any hassle. But if you are in the mood to cook and spend some time in the kitchen while enjoying the drizzle outside, homemade treats hit differently. Since it is the peak of monsoon season, here are eight spicy snacks you can whip up at home to make your monsoons memorable.
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Here Are 8 Homemade Spicy Snacks That Hit Differently When It Rains:
1. Mirchi Bhaji Recipe
Nothing screams monsoon like big, fat chillies stuffed with a flavourful mashed potato filling. Mirchi bhaji is made by dipping it in besan and frying it until it is golden in colour. That fiery flavour, followed by a crunchy outing, is basically the snack version of a warm hug. Pair it with mint chutney, and you are good to go. Here is how to make at home.
2. Samosa Recipe
Crispy outside, spicy potato-pea filling inside, samosas are literally designed for rainy days. Break one open from the middle and let the steam escape. Then dunk it into tangy tamarind chutney. Bonus points if you pair it with a cutting chai while listening to the rain. Here is how you can make this spicy samosa at home.
3. Pakora Recipe
Be it onion, potato, or paneer pakoras, these bite-sized fritters are a monsoon favourite for a reason. The crunch, the spice, and the coriander chutney on the side make it a full-on sensory experience for your tongue. They taste ten times better when it is raining outside. Here are some easy pakora recipes to try at home.
4. Aloo Tikki Chaat Recipe
Spicy, tangy, and super crunchy, aloo tikki chaat is that street food snack that hits differently when you are standing under an umbrella. It has layers of chutneys, curd, and masala that make eating it a rollercoaster ride for your senses. If you love having aloo tikki, here is an easy way to make it at home and enjoy its flavours hassle-free.
5. Chilli Paneer Recipe
Rainy days and Indo-Chinese food are a combination nothing can beat, and what better way to enjoy it than with chilli paneer? Spicy paneer tossed with capsicum, onion, and sauces provides the perfect balance of heat and crunch. Pair it with fried rice, or enjoy it as finger food while watching the rain pour. Find an easy recipe for chilli paneer here.
6. Masala Corn Recipe
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If you are looking for something light yet spicy, masala corn is the way to go. Sweet corn kernels mixed with chilli powder, lemon juice, and chaat masala create a warm, comforting snack that does not need deep-frying. It is a convenient way to enjoy bhutta without spoiling your hands. Here is how to make masala corn at home.
7. Keema Pav Recipe
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For non-vegetarian lovers, keema pav is monsoon bliss. Spicy minced meat slow-cooked with masalas and served with buttery pav feels like comfort food with a punch. It is definitely the hearty choice when pakoras are not enough and keeps you full for hours with its delicious taste. Here is how to make keema pav at home.
8. Chilli Garlic Momos Recipe
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Rain and momos are a combination loved by many. This fiery chilli garlic momo recipe has garlic sauce coating every dumpling, making each bite steamy and spicy at once. Check out this recipe to entice your taste buds. If you want to skip the hassle, order it from your favourite food delivery app and get it delivered to your doorstep.
Health Benefits of Spicy Food in Monsoon
Spicy food is not only comforting but also has surprising health perks during the monsoon season. Eating moderate amounts of these snacks can make rainy days a little healthier and more enjoyable. Key benefits include:
Boosts Metabolism: Chillies contain capsaicin, which stimulates metabolism and improves blood circulation.
Aids Digestion: Indian spices such as turmeric, cumin, and ginger help the digestive system work efficiently.
Prevents Monsoon Ailments: These spices have antimicrobial properties that can reduce the risk of cold, flu, or indigestion.
Enhances Immunity: Regular consumption of spicy snacks in moderation can strengthen the body's natural defences.
6 Best Drinks To Pair With Spicy Snacks
Pairing the right drink enhances the snack experience. These beverages balance the spice and complement monsoon moods.
1. Masala Chai
A hot cup of masala chai with cardamom, ginger, and cloves is the ultimate monsoon companion. Its warmth balances the crunch and spice of pakoras or bhajiyas.
2. Buttermilk (Chhaas)
Light, cooling, and refreshing, buttermilk helps cut through oily and spicy foods. Add a hint of roasted cumin and mint for a digestive boost.
3. Sweet Lassi
Thick, creamy, and mildly sweet, lassi instantly calms your taste buds. It pairs especially well with spicy samosas or aloo bondas.
4. Lemonade (Nimbu Pani)
Tangy, zesty, and hydrating, lemonade adds a burst of freshness. It is the perfect drink when you need a quick cool-down after spicy snacks.
5. Tender Coconut Water
Naturally sweet and refreshing, coconut water works like magic against chilli heat. It keeps you hydrated during humid monsoon days.
6. Light Beer
For adults, a chilled light beer is a great pairing. Its crisp, slightly bitter taste complements spicy fried snacks and balances strong flavours.
Tips To Balance Spices In Cooking
Even spicy food needs balance. These tips help maintain the right level of heat without compromising flavour.
1. Add Dairy
Yoghurt, cream, or milk can tone down excess chilli in curries, gravies, or snacks without altering the flavour.
2. Use Sweetness
A pinch of sugar, honey, or jaggery balances fiery flavours and makes spicy dishes more rounded in taste.
3. Dilute It
If your dish is too hot, add more vegetables, dal, or water. This reduces overall spice without losing flavour.
4. Squeeze Lemon
A dash of lemon juice cuts through strong flavours and calms the spice while brightening the overall taste.
5. Serve With Rice or Bread
Starchy foods like rice, roti, or parathas absorb excess spice naturally, making the dish easier on your taste buds.
Quick Hacks To Make Snacks Spicier
For those who want extra heat, these simple hacks enhance flavour and intensity.
1. Sprinkle Chaat Masala
A quick dusting of chaat masala adds heat, tang, and zing to pakoras, fries, or chaats.
2. Fry Green Chillies
Serving fried green chillies on the side boosts heat and gives snacks like bhajiyas or vadas an extra kick.
3. Add Spicy Chutneys
Pair your snacks with fiery green chutney or garlic chutney for a spicier, layered flavour.
4. Top With Red Chilli Flakes
Sprinkle red chilli flakes over samosas, kathi rolls, or fries to enhance heat without overpowering.
5. Mix in Black Pepper
A pinch of freshly ground black pepper intensifies flavours while giving a subtle spicy warmth.
Storage Tips For Homemade Snacks
If you are cooking a batch of snacks for later, keeping them fresh and crunchy is key. These simple storage hacks make sure your treats taste just as good hours after cooking:
Use Airtight Containers: Store mirchi bhaji, pakoras, and samosas in an airtight container for up to two days.
Reheat Properly: Use a preheated oven or air fryer instead of a microwave to maintain crispiness.
Separate Chutneys: Keep chutneys in a fridge in a separate container to retain their flavour and freshness.
Quick Serving Tip: For best results, reheat only the portion you are going to serve to preserve texture and taste.
Also Read: How To Make Crispy Dosa Without A Cast Iron Pan
So, try these delicious snacks at home and make your monsoons even more enjoyable.
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