Rajasthan, with its vibrant culture and rich culinary heritage, offers a unique experience during the monsoon season. The rains bring relief from the scorching heat, making it the perfect time to indulge in some of the state’s most delicious and hearty dishes.
Here’s a guide to the monsoon specialties you must try when in Rajasthan this August:
Dal Baati Churma
A quintessential Rajasthani dish, Dal Baati Churma is a combination of three components: spicy lentils (dal), baked wheat dough balls (baati), and sweetened crushed wheat with ghee (churma). This dish is perfect for the monsoon as the baatis are baked or fried, making them ideal comfort food for rainy days.
Where to Try: Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
Ker Sangri
A traditional dish made from dried wild beans (ker) and dried berries (sangri), Ker Sangri is cooked in a spicy, tangy masala. This dish is often paired with bajra roti (millet flatbread), making it a hearty and nutritious meal.
Where to Try: Jaisalmer and Bikaner.
Gatte Ki Sabzi
Gatte Ki Sabzi is a Rajasthani curry made from gram flour (besan) dumplings cooked in a spicy yogurt-based gravy. It’s a comfort dish that warms you up, making it perfect for the monsoon season.
Where to Try: Jaipur, Kota, and Ajmer.
Onion Kachori
A popular street food, especially during the monsoon, Onion Kachori (Pyaaz Kachori) is a deep-fried pastry stuffed with a spicy onion filling. It’s crispy, flaky, and best enjoyed with a side of tamarind or mint chutney.
Where to Try: Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner.
5.Mirchi Vada
Another popular monsoon snack, Mirchi Vada is a spicy green chili stuffed with a tangy potato filling, dipped in gram flour batter, and deep-fried. It’s perfect for a rainy day, accompanied by a hot cup of masala chai.
Where to Try: Jodhpur and Udaipur.
6. Rajasthani Kadhi
Rajasthani Kadhi is a tangy yogurt-based curry made with besan (gram flour) and spices. It’s often served with steamed rice or bajra roti. The warming spices and tangy flavors make it an ideal dish for the monsoon.
Where to Try: Throughout Rajasthan.
7. Bajre Ki Khichdi
A wholesome dish made from millet (bajra) and lentils, Bajre Ki Khichdi is nutritious and filling. It’s often served with a dollop of ghee and a side of buttermilk, making it a comforting meal during the rainy season.
Where to Try: Rural areas around Jaipur and Jaisalmer.
8. Malpua
For those with a sweet tooth, Malpua is a must-try. These are deep-fried pancakes made from flour, semolina, and sugar, soaked in sugar syrup. The warm, syrupy goodness of Malpua is especially satisfying during the monsoons.
Where to Try: Pushkar and Jaipur.
9. Ghevar
A monsoon favorite, Ghevar is a sweet delicacy made from flour, soaked in sugar syrup, and topped with khoya (milk solids) and dry fruits. This dessert is especially popular during the Teej festival, which is celebrated in August.
Where to Try : Savor this treat in the sweet shops of Jaipur and Udaipur.
10. Makki ki Raab
A warm and nourishing drink, Makki ki Raab is made from corn flour and buttermilk, seasoned with spices. It’s traditionally served as a healthy and filling beverage during the monsoon.
Where to Try :This drink is often found in rural areas, but some traditional eateries in Jodhpur and Jaipur serve it as part of a monsoon special menu.
The monsoon season in Rajasthan is a time to savor the state’s rich and diverse culinary offerings. Whether you’re indulging in spicy curries, crispy snacks, or sweet delights, the flavors of Rajasthan during August are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate. Don’t miss the chance to explore these monsoon specialties and experience the true essence of Rajasthani cuisine.
