When the heavens open up to shower the earth with a much-needed relief from summer’s heat, there’s nothing quite as comforting as sitting by a window, watching the rain, and savoring a hot, delectable dish. With the rainy season upon us, it’s time to explore the top 7 foods to relish during rainy season. Whether you’re just a food enthusiast or are looking to find some comfort food to relish during pregnancy, this guide will serve as your rainy-day culinary compass.
Hot Soup
A hot bowl of soup is the perfect antidote to the chill and dampness of a rainy day. Soups, whether it’s the classic chicken noodle or a rich and creamy tomato soup, are nourishing and comforting. They are also light and easily digestible, making them an ideal food to relish during pregnancy.
Pakora and Chai
There is something magical about Indian ‘chai’ (tea) and ‘pakoras’ (deep-fried snacks) on a rainy day. A cup of steaming hot chai paired with crispy pakoras can warm your heart and soul. Make it a variety of pakoras – spinach, potato, onion, or cheese – and you have a crunchy delight to savor with every raindrop.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Nothing says comfort like a grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of crunchy bread and gooey, melted cheese is pure bliss. Add a bowl of hot soup on the side, and you have a classic rainy-day meal.
Hot Cocoa
Even though hot cocoa is usually associated with winter, it’s just as enjoyable during the rainy season. A mug of rich, creamy, hot cocoa can be the perfect companion as you curl up with a good book or movie on a rainy day.
Dim Sum
While not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about rainy day foods, Dim Sum can be a deliciously warming and filling option. The delicate balance of flavors in dishes like Har Gao (shrimp dumplings) or Siu Mai (pork dumplings) are sure to please your taste buds and warm you up from the inside.
Freshly Baked Bread
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house on a rainy day. With countless recipes available online, it’s easier than ever to bake your own bread at home.
Corn on the Cob
Rainy season is synonymous with corn season in many parts of the world. A roasted or boiled corn on the cob, seasoned with some salt and butter, can be an absolute delight to relish during the rainy season.
Food Safety during the Rainy Season
While we’re busy relishing the season’s best foods, let’s not forget to pay extra attention to food safety during the rainy season. Here’s why it’s crucial and some tips on how to ensure it:
The rainy season often comes with an increase in water-borne diseases and infections. This is because the rainwater can sometimes be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. Consequently, the food we consume needs to be clean and well-cooked to avoid any potential health issues.
Tips for Safe Eating
Stay Hydrated: Clean drinking water becomes even more critical during the rainy season. Boil the water before consuming it or invest in a good quality water purifier.
Eat Well-Cooked Food: Make sure that the food you consume is thoroughly cooked, especially meat and fish. Undercooked or raw food could harbor harmful pathogens.
Clean Fruits and Vegetables Properly: Before eating or using them in cooking, make sure to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Avoid Street Food: While street food might be enticing, it’s best to avoid it during the rainy season as the chances of it being contaminated are higher. Stick to homemade meals as much as possible.
Healthy Choices During Rainy Season
Now, let’s focus on ensuring that your rainy-day food binge doesn’t go against your health goals. As tempting as the deep-fried snacks and extra-cheesy dishes can be, it’s important to make healthier food choices, especially for expecting mothers who want to relish during pregnancy.
Vegetable soups, for instance, can be packed with nutrients. Make a hearty lentil soup or a nourishing broccoli and cheese soup. Not only are they comforting, but they are also a great way to get some veggies into your diet.
Salads might not be the first food that comes to mind for a rainy day, but a warm grain salad can be surprisingly satisfying. Hearty grains like quinoa or bulgur provide a satisfying chew, while a warm vinaigrette can add flavor and warmth.
Instead of opting for regular grilled cheese sandwiches, try a grilled chicken and avocado sandwich. It is just as satisfying, but it includes lean protein and healthy fats. You can find a great recipe for it here.
Don’t forget about fruits. Rainy season fruits like cherries, plums, and peaches can make for a sweet and satisfying dessert or snack. A bowl of fresh fruit, or a cozy baked fruit dish, can be a healthy and sweet ending to your rainy-day meals.
Comfort, Convenience, and Creativity
The monsoon season brings with it the need for comfort and warmth. But for those of us who may not be quite as savvy in the kitchen or who might be pressed for time, fret not! There are ways to enjoy these comforting meals without having to slave away in the kitchen for hours.
Microwave Magic
Turn to the convenience of microwave meals that are not just quick to make but also come with a range of options. For instance, microwave mug cakes are a delightful dessert that are easy to whip up and can be customized to your taste. A basic chocolate mug cake can be made more interesting with the addition of chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit. You can also experiment with flavors like lemon, cinnamon, or peanut butter.
Slow Cooker Comfort
A slow cooker can be a lifesaver during rainy days. From soups and stews to casseroles and desserts, a slow cooker can do it all. Try out this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe. It’s a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.
Freezer Favorites
Make meals ahead of time and freeze them for later. Not only does this save time, but it also allows you to have homemade comfort food on hand whenever you want. Recipes like lasagna, meatloaf, or even vegetable casseroles work well for freezing.
Explore and Enjoy
Whether you are a seasoned home cook, a beginner, or just someone who enjoys food, the rainy season is a wonderful time to explore different dishes and flavors. The cold and damp weather invites warm and comforting meals that can be shared with loved ones or enjoyed alone while watching the raindrops fall.
But let’s not forget the important aspect of mindful eating. Balance your indulgences with healthy choices and remember to enjoy not just the food but also the process of cooking and sharing meals.
Wrapping Up
Embracing the rainy season means more than just pulling out your raincoat and umbrella. It also means treating your taste buds to warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious food. These top 7 foods to relish during rainy season are not just about indulging yourself, but they also offer a chance to bond with family and friends over shared meals, and if you are an expecting mom, an opportunity to discover foods that you will relish during pregnancy.
So, go on, let the rain inspire your culinary creativity and immerse yourself in the season. Cook up a storm in the kitchen while it pours outside and make the most of the weather with these delightful dishes. As the rain falls and the air fills with that sweet petrichor, it’s time to take a bite of your favorite dish, curl up in your favorite spot, and watch as the world is washed anew. Happy monsoon eating to you.
