Dilli Diaries: The Best Monsoon Snacks In The Capital & Where To Get Them

Delhi is a city of many seasons, and drastic ones, may we add. If it’s hot, it’s almost 50 degrees and if it’s cold, it just about touches zero in the later months of the year! So what is the best time to be in this thermometer of a city? Why the third quarter of the year, a.k.a. Monsoons, of course!

Delhi monsoons are a sight to behold and an experience to gather if you’re one for romantic breezes and sumptuous snacks to gobble with. Speaking of, is there any experience that can be deemed complete without the right grubs to pair? No. And the Capital offers just the right snacks to munch on as you watch the rain pitter-patter upon the city. Here are some of our favourite monsoon snacks – and drinks – in Delhi and where you can get them!

1. Samosa

Yes, we know this one is not an original from India! But we’ve loved and relished it like our very own. More than our own, in fact! Because on a rainy day what spells out comfort food better than spiced mashed potatoes encrusted in a deep-fried crunchy flour covering, right? Hop on over to these places for your share of piping hot samosas and chutney.

Image: Holy Cow! Vegan

2. Pakora

“Oh hey, it’s raining! Let’s not have pakoras” said no one ever! There is an odd sense of peace and calm that comes along with a platter full of deep-fried fritters. From pyaaz and aloo to gobhi and mirch, these pakoras have a way of stepping up the ante of the already beautiful weather. Also, nothing tastes half as delicious as pakoras with a cup of elaichi chai (cardamom tea)!

Image: Hari Ghotra

3. Kachori

While we are still talking about the sinfully rich deep-fried snacks, let snot leave behind the crunchiest of them all – kachoris. We’re not sure whether it’s the sheer flakiness of the outer crust, the savouriness of the filling or the absolute brilliance of the sabzi that comes with that makes this dish an absolute savoury decadence. Either way, you just cannot miss a plate of Dilli-style kachori sabzi this rainy season!

Image: YouTube

4. Paratha

Speaking of fillings and stuffing, is there a more legit way to scoff down flatbread than a gorgeous stuffed paratha? Lucky for you, the Capital has its share of ace paratha makers and vendors in abundance. From the bustling lanes of Old Delhi that houses the famous Parathewali Gali, to the posh office localities of Gurgaon that nestle drool-worthy parathas at Convergy’s and more, there are more parathas to eat in Delhi than you can ever imagine!

Image: Archana’s Kitchen

5. Chai

Well well well, what have we here? The biggest player of the monsoon season – or any season really, if you’re in India – and the one hot beverage that strings together the people of this country – chai (tea). Whether you like it kadak, cutting, masala, with some cardamom and/or ginger, there is no way you are making it through the season without a mugful of this desi brew! Check out some of Delhi’s best tea rooms here for tea that will have you asking for seconds!

6. Coffee

If a piping hot mug of chai doesn’t get you going, allow us to introduce you to these amazing coffee shops in Delhi that’ll welcome you with open arms and a calming caffeine hit this Monsoon. So kick back and enjoy your cuppa Joe and take in some of that picturesque Delhi rain. Psst! If you’re looking to brew your own potion at home, here are the best places in the Capital to bag some priceless coffee beans!

Image: Wikipedia

7. Hot Chocolate

So, you’re not a fan of caffeine, is it? That doesn’t mean you need to snuggle up with nothing! There is always a calming mug of hot chocolate when all else fails. And these cafés in the Capital do a stellar job at putting together the chocolatiest, creamiest, and richest hot cocoa that you’ve ever laid hands on.

Image: Detoxinista

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