Why do we crave crispy fritters during monsoon season

by Dr. Siddhant Bhargava, Fitness and Nutritional Scientist, Co-Founder- Food Darzee
The monsoon characterized by heavy rains and cooler weather, creates an atmosphere where people often crave warm and comforting foods. Fritters or bhajjiyas perfectly fit the bill with their crispy and deep-fried exterior and deliciously spicy fillings.
The nostalgia of sitting with the family enjoying crispy fritters and a hot cup of tea in the rain is unparalleled. The combination of crunchy texture on the outside and soft filling on the inside provides a delightful experience, helping people feel cozy and content on a gloomy day. In many cultures in our country, fried foods are an integral part of traditional and social gatherings. Exposure to such food in social settings leads to increased cravings for them as they become symbolic of enjoyable experiences and social bonding.
Another factor adding to the culture of eating fritters in the rainy season is the availability of fresh ingredients which are commonly used. Vegetables like onions, potatoes, spinach, eggplants, and cauliflower are commonly used to make these delicious snacks.
The science behind these cravings is that the hormone serotonin which keeps us happy and optimistic, dips in monsoon. Lack of proper sunlight is the main reason, which also affects the production of Vitamin D in the body. Our body desires carbohydrates in such situations, as carbs are best to boost Serotonin levels in our body. However, within some time the levels go down again and the cravings are back.
Monsoon makes our surroundings damp which is why the crunchy feel of the deep-fried fritters gives us a sense of comfort and well-being. Consuming certain types of foods, including fried foods, can lead to the release of Dopamine in the brain. Dopamine hormone is associated with pleasure and reward and it can reinforce the desire for fried foods when we experience the positive sensations associated with eating them.
While it is okay to occasionally indulge in fried foods, it is essential to be mindful of their high calorie and fat content. If cravings for fried foods become overwhelming, one can explore healthier cooking alternatives such as air frying, grilling, etc. These foods will offer similar textures and flavors with fewer calories.