Diwali Magic in Every Twist: Perfecting Crispy Murukku, Pro Tips, Variations and Beyond

Murukku is more than just a snack; it's a symbol of togetherness, tradition, and the sheer joy of Diwali. Whether you're a novice or a pro, making these crispy delights will certainly add a dash of magic to your festival.

The delightful crunch of murukku, coupled with its unique shape, is a versatile treat, enjoyed as a tea-time snack, offered to guests, and even given as gifts during the festival.

Making Crispy Murukku:

• Start with the best-quality rice flour and urad dal (black gram) flour you can find.
• Achieving the right consistency of the murukku dough is crucial. It should be soft but not too sticky.
• Maintain the right oil temperature. It should be hot but not smoking when you begin frying. If the oil is too hot, the murukku may brown too quickly without crisping up properly.
• If you're using a murukku press, ensure the nozzle you choose allows the dough to flow smoothly. A nozzle with a narrower opening will yield a crispier murukku.

Short on time?

Quality store-bought rice flour works well for making murukku. Just remember to sieve it to remove any lumps.

While intricate murukku shapes are beautiful, you can make the process easier by creating simple, round, or stick-shaped murukku.

You can make murukku without traditional frying!

1. Baked Murukku: Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (usually around 350-375°F or 180-190°C). Use a murukku press to shape the dough as you normally would. Place the murukku on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush the murukku with oil or cooking spray for a golden and crispy finish. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

2. Air-Fried Murukku: Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature (usually around 350°F or 180°C). Follow same procedures as you would with oven. Cook in the air fryer for a few minutes, shaking the basket or turning the murukku to ensure even cooking.

Make sure...

• Whether baking, air frying, the murukku might take a little longer to achieve the desired texture compared to deep-frying. Be patient and monitor them to avoid overcooking.
• To maintain their crispiness, store your murukku in an airtight container. You can also add a small piece of kitchen paper in the container to help absorb any moisture.