Are you craving a crispy, savory snack that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than Butter Murukku! This delightful twist on the classic South Indian snack elevates the traditional recipe with a rich, buttery aroma and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for tea time, parties, or a quick and satisfying snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe will guide you through every step. Let's get started on creating these delicious homemade treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water (or as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) – optional, but adds a great depth of flavor
- Oil for deep frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and all-purpose flour. Whisk thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps.
- Add the melted butter, salt, and asafoetida (if using) to the flour mixture.
- Gradually add water, mixing with your hands until a firm, smooth dough forms. The dough should be slightly stiff, but not dry. You may need slightly more or less water depending on the type of flour you use.
Shaping and Frying:
- Heat oil in a kadai or deep frying pan to medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of dough dropped in sizzles immediately.
- Traditionally, a Murukku press is used to shape the dough. If you don't have one, you can use a piping bag or even a ziplock bag with a small corner snipped off.
- Fill your chosen tool with the dough and carefully pipe it into spirals or other desired shapes directly into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per batch, or until the murukku turns golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning.
Cooling and Serving:
- Remove the fried murukku using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Allow the murukku to cool completely before storing.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Butter Murukku:
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for evenly cooked and crispy murukku. If the oil is too cool, the murukku will absorb too much oil. If it's too hot, they will burn before cooking through.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be firm and easy to handle. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour; if it's too dry, add a little more water.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy murukku. Fry in small batches for best results.
Variations:
- Spicy Murukku: Add a pinch of red chili powder or green chilies to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on the murukku before frying for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on oil absorption)
- Fat: High (due to the oil and butter)
This recipe provides quick dinner ideas and is a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks, offering delicious dishes that are easy to prepare. Enjoy your homemade Butter Murukku! They're best enjoyed fresh, but will keep in an airtight container for several days. Happy cooking!