Monsoon Magic: Two Irresistible Indian Recipes to Savor the Rainy Season
BILKULONLINE
SUNDAY Special

1. Pakoras with Mint Chutney
A classic monsoon snack, pakoras are perfect for a rainy day with a cup of chai.
Ingredients
For Pakoras:
Besan (gram flour) – 1 cup
Sliced onion – 1 medium
Chopped spinach – 1 cup
Green chilies (chopped) – 1-2
Carom seeds (ajwain) – ½ tsp
Red chili powder – ½ tsp
Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
Salt – to taste
Water – as needed
Oil – for frying
For Mint Chutney:
Fresh mint leaves – 1 cup
Fresh coriander – ½ cup
Green chilies – 2
Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Salt – to taste
Instructions
Pakoras:
Mix besan, sliced onion, chopped spinach, carom seeds, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt.
Add water gradually to form a thick batter.
Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of batter to fry until golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Mint Chutney:
Blend mint, coriander, green chilies, lemon juice, and salt with a little water until smooth.
Serve pakoras with the mint chutney and enjoy the monsoon vibes!

2. Masala Chai and Bread Pakora
Pairing spiced tea with bread pakoras makes for a comforting monsoon treat.
Ingredients
For Masala Chai:
Water – 2 cups
Milk – 1 cup
Tea leaves – 2 tsp
Crushed ginger – 1 tsp
Crushed cardamom – 2 pods
Clove – 1
Cinnamon stick – ½ inch
Sugar – to taste
For Bread Pakora:
Bread slices – 4
Boiled potatoes (mashed) – 2
Green chilies (chopped) – 1
Coriander leaves – 2 tbsp
Spices: red chili powder, cumin powder, salt – to taste
Besan – 1 cup
Water – as needed
Oil – for frying
Instructions
Masala Chai:
Boil water with ginger, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon.
Add tea leaves and simmer for 2 minutes.
Pour in milk and sugar; boil for 2 more minutes. Strain into cups.
Bread Pakora:
Mix mashed potatoes with spices, green chilies, and coriander.
Spread the potato filling on one slice of bread, cover with another, and cut into halves.
Prepare a thick batter with besan, water, and a pinch of salt.
Dip stuffed bread into the batter and deep fry until golden brown.
Serve hot with ketchup or chutney alongside masala chai.
Enjoy these cozy delights while watching the raindrops fall!
