Murukku

Introduction to Murukku

Murukku is a traditional South Indian savory snack that has gained popularity across India and even internationally. The word "Murukku" is derived from the Tamil word for "twisted," referring to its unique spiral shape. This crispy delight is typically made from rice flour and urad dal flour, seasoned with sesame seeds and ajwain seeds. Murukku is a staple during festivals like Diwali, and it's also enjoyed as a tea-time snack. The history of Murukku dates back centuries as part of traditional Tamil cuisine, evolving over time with different regions adding unique touches to the recipe.

Ingredients for Murukku

• Rice Flour - 2 cups
• Urad Dal Flour - 1/2 cup
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame Seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Ajwain Seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - as per taste
• Water - as required for kneading
• Oil - for deep frying

Preparation of Murukku

Before you begin making Murukku, ensure that your rice flour and urad dal flour are fresh, as this will impact the taste and texture of the final product. If you choose to make your own urad dal flour, roast the dal until golden and grind it into a fine powder.

Start by sifting the rice flour and urad dal flour together in a large mixing bowl to eliminate any lumps. Add sesame seeds, ajwain seeds, and salt to the flour mixture and mix well.

Cooking Process of Murukku

Kneading the Dough

Add melted butter to the flour mixture and crumble it well with your fingers. Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, firm dough. The consistency of the dough is critical; it should be soft yet firm enough to hold shape without breaking.

Forming the Murukku

To shape the Murukku, use a traditional murukku maker or a piping bag with a star nozzle. Grease the interior of the maker and fill it with a portion of the dough.

Frying the Murukku

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into it; if it rises quickly, the oil is hot enough. Squeeze the dough through the press directly into the hot oil, forming neat spirals. Fry them until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking. It’s essential to fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and affect the murukku’s crispness. Use a slotted spoon to remove the murukku from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Allow the murukkus to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their crunchiness.

Setting a Cooking Timer

Ensure that each batch is fried for about 8 to 10 minutes, setting a timer can help in achieving the perfect crispiness without burning.

Enjoying Your Murukku

Murukku is best enjoyed as a snack with tea or coffee. You can serve it with a side of coconut chutney or enjoy it plain. Its crunchy texture and aromatic flavors make it a delightful snack for any occasion. Pack it for picnics, serve it at parties, or just have a delicious treat whenever you crave something savory and crispy.