Pune, a vibrant city, embodies ancient Marathi tradition and essence and is also known for its monsoon season. Since the city seems to have revived in this season and offers a pleasant climate, who would not like to have sizzling street foods? However, It offers a variety of street foods to enjoy in the monsoon. Have a look at some of the monsoon delights and street foods to try out on Pune’s rainy days.
Vada Pav
It’s a very popular street food in Mumbai, but it’s also most liked in Pune. It is made up of deep-fried potato balls dipped in besan called vada, served with a bun (pav), along with chutneys and fried green chillies. Some famous places to have it are JJ Garden Vada Pav in Camp and Joshi Vadawale- this has become a brand across the city with many outlets.
Corn Snacks
A snack that is liked by almost all age groups. Either roasted or boiled maize, called bhutta, is one of the most preferred snacks. When walking through the streets, many food vendors are seen selling boiled hot corn, strewing salt, pepper, and lime juice over it. It is a very simple snack yet very satisfying to satiate cravings in the rainy season.
Pav Bhaji
Pune is known for its delightful Pav Bhaji. Bhaji is a mashed vegetable curry with multiple spices that is extra spicy in taste, served with loaded butter and a soft bun. The ingredients make it exotic and delicious. However, It comes under snack as well as a complete comfort meal to have it in the rainy season.
Also Read: Top 8 Underrated Bakeries in Pune
Misal Pav
A must-try street cuisine in Pune, Misal Pav is a spicy and sour Maharashtrian snack. It contains a hot curry cooked with sprouted lentils (matki or moth beans), sprinkled with farsan (a crunchy fried mix), diced onions, and coriander, and served with pav (bread rolls). People are able to stay warm during the monsoon showers because of the nutritional value of this exquisite meal.
Kanda Bhaji
During the rainy season, Pune folks enjoy Kanda Bhaji or Onion Pakoda as a snack. Sliced onions are combined with a spicy chickpea flour batter and deep-fried till crisp and golden. The perfect way to enjoy these fritters is with a cup of masala chai. Some famous outlets to try it out are Mahalaxmi Bhajiya centre- located in the heart of Bhavabi Peth, and Diwakars- a legendary place to have bhajiyas situated on MG Road.
Sabudana Vada
Sabudana Vada is a crunchy and delicious snack prepared with mashed potatoes, different spices, and soaked tapioca pearls (sago). These vadas are deep-fried, have a browned appearance, and are soft and flavorful from within. For a tasty monsoon treat, serve them with green chutney or yogurt.
Piping Hot Chai
The best way to accompany any street food experience in Pune during the rainy season is with a hot cup of masala chai, despite the fact that it is not a food item. While enjoying the street foods and the lovely weather, sip flavorful spiced tea.
However, during the rains in Pune, make use of the bliss of the season by venturing outside to try the street food options. Captivating memories are likely to be made as you explore the delicious foods and savor the distinctive flavors. Long after the rainy season is over, one will likely want more of Pune’s monsoon street food.
Ruchi, a utopian thinker, has a passion to write and express her thoughts through writing. Constantly seeking knowledge and embracing new experiences. She worked in multiple domains of writing and has a passion for capturing moments through the lens.
