How to Make Murukku (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Murukku is a beloved Sri Lankan street food snack, cherished for its irresistibly crisp texture and delicate savory flavor. This crunchy spiral-shaped treat is a staple during festive occasions, but it is also enjoyed as an everyday tea-time snack across Sri Lanka. Made primarily from rice flour and urad dal flour, Murukku is naturally vegan and vegetarian, making it a perfect fit for a plant-based diet. In Sri Lanka, Murukku holds a special place in both Tamil and Sinhalese communities, often prepared at home and shared with family and friends. The word 'murukku' means 'twisted' in Tamil, which refers to its unique coil or spiral shape formed by pressing the dough through a special mold. With aromatic spices like cumin and sesame seeds, each bite of Murukku is a burst of flavor and crunch. This healthier version uses minimal oil and wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for calorie-conscious foodies seeking authentic Sri Lankan flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rice flour (Kekulu haal pethi)
- 1/4 cup Urad dal flour (Ulundu pethi)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (Thala)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds (Suduru)
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili powder (Optional for mild heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Asafoetida powder (Perumkayam)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil (Pol thel, for dough)
- as needed Water (To form dough)
- for light frying Coconut oil (Pol thel, use as little as possible)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, urad dal flour, sesame seeds, cumin seeds, chili powder, salt, and asafoetida powder.
Step 2 · Add the 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the dry ingredients and mix...
Add the 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the dry ingredients and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Step 3 · Gradually add water
Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, kneading until you form a smooth, soft, and non-sticky dough.
Step 4 · Fill a Murukku press (or piping bag with a star nozzle) with the dough
Fill a Murukku press (or piping bag with a star nozzle) with the dough. On parchment paper or a clean surface, pipe out spiral shapes of desired size.
Step 5 · Heat coconut oil in a shallow pan over medium heat
Heat coconut oil in a shallow pan over medium heat. Once hot, gently slide in a few Murukku spirals at a time.
Step 6 · Fry Murukku until golden and crisp
Fry Murukku until golden and crisp, turning occasionally for even browning. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 7 · Let Murukku cool completely before serving
Let Murukku cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container to retain crunch.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthier Sri Lankan Murukku recipe uses minimal oil and leverages wholesome ingredients such as rice and urad dal flours, making it lower in saturated fat and free from artificial additives. Its vegan and gluten-free potential ensures suitability for various dietary preferences while still delivering authentic flavors and satisfying crunch. Perfect for guilt-free snacking, especially for those watching their calorie intake.
A note on tradition
Murukku is a traditional snack deeply rooted in Sri Lankan Tamil and Sinhalese culture, often prepared during festive times such as Tamil New Year, Sinhala Avurudu, and family celebrations. Its sharing signifies hospitality and togetherness. Though widely available as street food across Sri Lanka, homemade Murukku is considered a special treat and a symbol of culinary heritage.