Rainy days have a unique charm, don’t they? The grey skies, gentle pitter-patter of raindrops, and cooler weather often call for something warm, flavourful, and utterly satisfying to eat. Indian cuisine, with its rich spices and comforting textures, feels like the perfect answer to such moments. Whether you're wrapped up in a blanket on the sofa or gathered around the table with loved ones, the diversity of Indian comfort foods brings a sense of warmth and contentment.
If you're finding yourself craving aromatic, hearty dishes during a drizzle outside, here are some of the top Indian comfort foods that could be just what you need. These dishes are easy to fall in love with, incredibly flavourful, and ideal for rainy evenings or colder days. And guess what? Convenient options like frozen meals from brands that specialise in authentic Indian cuisine, such as Express Indian Delivered, mean you can enjoy these delights anytime – no fuss, no compromise.
Is there anything more comforting than creamy, aromatic butter chicken paired with warm naan or steamed rice? This iconic Punjabi dish combines tender chicken with a tomato-based curry enriched with butter and cream. The balance of tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spiced flavours makes it a universal favourite.
Perfect for rain-watching evenings, butter chicken feels indulgent without being overly complex. Many find it an excellent starting point for exploring Indian cuisine if they’re new to the flavours. Plus, warming it up couldn’t be easier when you have frozen options available, offering the authentic taste without the hours of cooking.
Rajma Chawal is what many Indians would describe as their ultimate comfort food. This hearty dish features red kidney beans cooked in a thick, flavourful tomato gravy, spiced with cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic. Served over steamed basmati rice, Rajma Chawal is simplicity at its finest.
If you're vegetarian or looking for a plant-based option, this dish is a star performer. Perfect to enjoy while wrapped in a blanket, it brings back nostalgic family meal vibes – even if you didn’t grow up eating it.
Let’s talk about snacks because soundtracks for rainy days often include crunchy bites. Pakoras are crispy fritters usually made with vegetables like onions, potatoes, or spinach, dipped in spicy gram flour batter and deep-fried. Pair them with a steaming cup of masala chai, and you’ve got the ultimate monsoon treat.
Pakoras are best enjoyed fresh and extra crispy, but don’t worry – they're surprisingly quick to whip up, even for beginners. Many stores also stock frozen pakoras for an instant rainy-day fix. Keep a chutney or two handy for dipping, and you're good to go.
A dish loved by generations, khichdi is the MVP of comfort foods. This one-pot dish combines lentils, rice, turmeric, and gentle spices to create a warm, mushy consistency that’s kind on the stomach and the soul.
Incredibly versatile, khichdi can be jazzed up with vegetables or paired with sides like yogurt, pickles, or papadums. For those seeking a nutritious yet calming meal on a cool evening, this is a definite go-to option.
Want the convenience of quick preparation? Many brands – including places known for quality Indian food like Express Indian Delivered – now offer simplified solutions for authentic Indian meals.
These flaky, triangle-shaped pastries with spiced potato or meat fillings are an undeniable favourite. Whether baked or fried, samosas bring a delightful crunch to rainy days. Complemented by tangy tamarind or mint chutney, they’re just the snack to perk up a gloomy weather mood.
Make them in a jiffy using frozen samosas for the same satisfying experience without the hassle of folding and stuffing the dough. Pro tip: air-fry or bake them if you want a lighter take.
Pav Bhaji is more than just food – it’s a burst of flavours and textures. This street food staple involves a vibrant, spicy vegetable mash served with buttered bread rolls (pav). The rich, savoury smell of bhaji cooking on the stovetop alone can brighten a rainy day.
Usually topped with a pat of butter and chopped onions, Pav Bhaji is easy to customise based on your spice tolerance. It’s hearty enough to satisfy a larger appetite, making it great for family meals on chilly evenings.
Biryani holds a special place in the hearts of Indian food lovers. Its layers of fragrant rice, spiced chicken (or other meats, if you prefer), along with crispy onions and herbs, create a satisfying balance of textures and tastes.
Chicken biryani takes some time to prepare from scratch, but you can capture its essence even with frozen ready-to-eat versions for hassle-free indulgence. The aromas alone can make you forget about the weather outside.
Rain and soup belong together! Adding a subcontinental twist to this classic means upgrading tomato soup with spices like cumin, curry leaves, and a splash of coconut milk. Serve it with a slice of garlic naan or a dollop of yogurt for an extra layer of comfort.
This modified tomato soup is light but filling, ideal when you’re in the mood for something less heavy but still satisfying. Best of all, you can throw it together quickly with minimal effort or pick a ready-made pack for an instant treat.
Preparing rich Indian comfort foods doesn’t always need hours in the kitchen, which is great news for busy families or individuals. You can still enjoy these sumptuous rainy-day dishes by stocking your freezer with thoughtfully prepared Indian meals from trusted brands that value authenticity and quality.
One such example is Express Indian Delivered, which offers frozen meals crafted with high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. These options retain all the vibrancy and comfort of homemade food while offering unparalleled convenience.
So, the next time it rains, why not let your freezer come to the rescue? With minimal prep time but maximum flavour, you can bring that warming touch of India to your table, no matter how grey the sky might look outside.
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