Monsoon in India is a magical time, marked by lush greenery, cooler temperatures, and, of course, the delight of savoring a variety of delicious foods. Indian cuisine during the monsoon season is all about comfort, warmth, and flavors that complement the rainy weather. Here’s a look at some popular monsoon foods in India that you must try:

1. Pakoras and Bhajiyas

  • Description: These are deep-fried fritters made from vegetables like potatoes, onions, spinach, and cauliflower, dipped in a gram flour batter.

  • Why It’s Popular: The crispy exterior and the soft interior make pakoras a perfect snack to enjoy with a hot cup of chai (tea) during the rains.

  • Regional Variations: In Maharashtra, "kanda bhaji" (onion fritters) are very popular, while in Gujarat, "dalwada" (lentil fritters) are a monsoon specialty.

2. Chai (Tea)

  • Description: A spiced tea made by boiling black tea leaves with milk, sugar, and a mix of spices such as cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon.

  • Why It’s Popular: A hot cup of masala chai is comforting and provides warmth during the cool monsoon season.

  • Regional Variations: In Assam, the tea is stronger and more robust, while in Kolkata, you might find a sweeter version with a hint of cloves.

3. Bhutta (Roasted Corn)

  • Description: Fresh corn on the cob, roasted over an open flame and seasoned with salt, chili powder, and lime juice.

  • Why It’s Popular: The smoky flavor of the roasted corn combined with the tangy and spicy seasoning is a perfect street food during the monsoon.

  • Regional Variations: In Mumbai, "bhutta" is a favorite beach snack, while in North India, it's often found being sold by street vendors during the rains.

4. Samosa

  • Description: Deep-fried pastry with a savory filling of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.

  • Why It’s Popular: The crispiness of the samosa pastry and the flavorful filling make it an irresistible snack during the rainy season.

  • Regional Variations: In Punjab, samosas are larger and spicier, whereas in the western states like Gujarat, they may have a sweeter, tangier filling.

5. Vada Pav

  • Description: A popular street food from Mumbai, it consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched in a bun (pav) and served with chutneys.

  • Why It’s Popular: The hot and spicy vada pav is a perfect match for the cool, rainy weather, providing a burst of flavors and warmth.

  • Regional Variations: While Mumbai's version is the most famous, you might find variations like the addition of cheese or different chutneys in other regions.

6. Hot Soups

  • Description: Various soups like tomato soup, sweet corn soup, and manchow soup.

  • Why It’s Popular: Soups provide warmth and comfort, making them ideal for the monsoon season.

  • Regional Variations: In South India, you might find rasam, a tangy and spicy soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a mix of spices.

7. Khichdi

  • Description: A simple, nutritious dish made from rice and lentils, often spiced and sometimes cooked with vegetables.

  • Why It’s Popular: Khichdi is light on the stomach and perfect for a cozy, comforting meal during the monsoon.

  • Regional Variations: In Gujarat, it might be served with kadhi, a yogurt-based curry, while in Bengal, "bhog khichuri" is made with an assortment of vegetables and spices.

8. Kachori

  • Description: A spicy snack made from deep-fried dough stuffed with a filling of lentils, onions, or potatoes.

  • Why It’s Popular: The crunchy exterior and the spicy, flavorful filling make kachoris a delightful monsoon treat.

  • Regional Variations: In Rajasthan, "pyaaz kachori" (onion-filled kachori) is very popular, whereas in Uttar Pradesh, you might find "khasta kachori" with a lentil filling.

9. Jalebi

  • Description: A sweet snack made by deep-frying batter into circular shapes and soaking them in sugar syrup.

  • Why It’s Popular: The hot, crispy, and syrupy jalebi provides a perfect contrast to the cool, rainy weather.

  • Regional Variations: In North India, jalebis are often thicker and served with rabri (thickened sweetened milk), while in South India, thinner, crispier versions are common.

10. Hot Chocolate

  • Description: A rich and creamy drink made from cocoa powder, milk, and sugar, sometimes topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.

  • Why It’s Popular: The warmth and richness of hot chocolate make it a comforting drink to enjoy during the monsoon.

  • Regional Variations: In cafes across India, you might find variations with added spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or versions made with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.


Monsoon foods in India are a celebration of flavors and textures, perfectly complementing the season's cool and damp weather. From the crunchy pakoras and spicy samosas to the comforting khichdi and sweet jalebi, these foods not only satisfy the palate but also bring warmth and joy. So, the next time the rains come pouring down,plan to enjoy this delecaices and visit lax to India and  indulge in these delightful monsoon treats and experience the culinary magic of the season.