Monsoon: Delicious Indian Recipes for Every Day and Season

For a limited time we have bookplates signed by Asma Khan.

Monsoon season is London chef Asma Khan’s favorite season from her childhood in India. In her own words: “There’s something deeply comforting about sitting by the window, listening to the rain’s soothing melody, while sharing steaming hot pakoras and chai with my siblings…The monsoon rain nourishes the earth, washing away the dust of summer, and in doing so it seems to cleanse my spirit, too.”

Here, Khan shares memories and dishes that epitomize her relationship with the monsoon season, and the other five seasons from the Bengal region (Summer, Fall, Dry Season, Winter, Spring).  The recipes are arranged by season with menu suggestions to group dishes for special occasions. 

For example, for a date night during Dry Season, which is characterized by earthy, sharp flavors, try Sirka Gosht, a slow-cooked lamb with vinegar, and Aloo Posto, potatoes with poppy seeds. Or if you’re hosting an outdoor party in Summer heat, you may want to cook Paneer Tikka skewers on the outdoor grill and have Mango Kulfi ice pops ready in the freezer. 

Khan’s encouragement to feed oneself in alignment with nature reminds us that seasonal eating isn’t just about buying what’s available at the farmers market; it’s about nourishing our feelings that change with the seasons. For more personal recipes and stories from Asma’s childhood, check out her previous book, Ammu.

Hardcover. Color photographs throughout.