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Close your eyes and picture this. It is raining once more. You can hear the sound of raindrops falling rapidly, the gentler ones sliding down the chilly window, and you are holding a cozy, soothing cup of hot coffee. Perfect? Not exactly. You open your eyes and suddenly feel a strong desire for something tasty. A delicious snack would make the moment just right. But should you grab another dish of fried pakoras? Maybe not. There are many light and delicious options to enjoy. Steamed dishes, especially, provide a lot of flavor without the greasy heaviness. From popular street foods to traditional regional dishes, here are some delightful choices to enjoy this rainy season.
Steamed Momos: There’s nothing like the pleasure of biting into a tender momo filled with hot vegetables or juicy chicken. These small Tibetan snacks have become favorites all over India, especially when the weather is rainy. Their warmth, soft texture, and the spicy chutney served with them make them an ideal comfort food. Whether you get them from a street vendor or your preferred food delivery service, steamed momos are usually a hit.
Fluffy Dhokla: Light, a bit tangy, and just the right amount of spice, dhokla is a well-loved dish from Gujarat that suits the rainy weather perfectly. It is steamed, gentle on the stomach, and has a unique fragrance from the mustard seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves that flavor it. A serving of dhokla alongside green chutney and fried chilies is all you need for a snack that feels as satisfying as anything fried but carries no guilt.
Himachali Siddu: Want to try something different from the usual snacks? Check out Siddu - a lesser-known but tasty treat from Himachal Pradesh. This steamed bread is made with wheat flour and filled with poppy seeds, jaggery, walnuts, or savory lentils. It is usually served with ghee or dal, making it hearty enough to be a meal. The flavors are rich, nutritious, and comforting - just right for a rainy day.
Soft Idlis: A list of steamed snacks would not be complete without the famous South Indian idli. These soft, fluffy rice cakes are not only comforting but also very versatile. You can dip them in sambar, top them with coconut or tomato chutney, or sprinkle them with podi masala for an exciting kick. Idlis are not only healthy and satisfying, but also easy to order online, perfect for those rainy days when you prefer to stay indoors.
Sweet Corn: If you're looking for a quick and tasty snack, a bowl of steamed sweet corn is perfect. Combine it with some butter, lemon juice, chaat masala, and chili powder to create a spicy and juicy treat that's ready in no time. Whether you prepare it yourself or buy it from a street vendor, having hot corn in a paper cup can really lift your mood on a dreary day.
Many of these favorites for the rainy season are surprisingly simple to make at home, particularly if you have a steamer, idli stand, or even just a large pan with a lid. You can easily find instant dhokla mixes in stores that can be made in less than 30 minutes. Frozen momos are also commonly available and just need to be steamed until they are hot and shiny. Sweet corn requires very little time—just boil or steam, mix in butter and spices, and it’s ready to eat. For idlis, you can either make your own batter the night before or buy a pre-made version from a local store. Steamed dishes are usually seen as a healthier choice than fried snacks, especially during the rainy season when digestion can slow down. While frying adds taste, it also increases oil and calorie content. Steaming helps keep the nutrients in your food intact and is kinder to your stomach. It's great for keeping vitamins that can be damaged by heat and are typically lost during high-heat cooking.
Although it’s fine to treat yourself to pakoras occasionally, steamed meals provide a healthier way to enjoy yourself. They are tasty, satisfying, and often just as enjoyable. If the rain makes it hard to go out, many of these meals can be ordered online or made at home with little effort.
