As the sun dips below the horizon and the evening descends, there’s a certain magic in the air—a sense of comfort and nostalgia that wraps around you like a warm blanket. I discovered this enchanting world of flavors while chatting with a friend over chai. She introduced me to the delightfully crispy Butter Murukku, a renowned South Indian snack that’s become a cherished staple in my kitchen. Every bite reveals a light, flaky texture, perfectly complemented by the richness of butter and fragrant spices like cumin and hing.
Best of all, this recipe is a snap to prepare in just 25 minutes, transforming pantry staples like rice flour and besan into a crowd-pleasing treat that leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re planning festive celebrations or simply looking to elevate your evening snacking, these golden, crunchy morsels promise to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into the art of making Butter Murukku and discover the joy of crafting your homemade delight!
Why is Butter Murukku with Besan and Rice Flour irresistible?
Quick to Make: This recipe takes just 25 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous snack cravings.
Deliciously Crispy: The combination of rice flour and besan provides a light, crunchy texture that’s simply addicting.
Versatile Flavors: Customize your murukku by adding spices like chili powder or experimenting with different shapes—there’s a world of flavor waiting!
Gluten-Free Option: With rice flour as a base, this snack can easily cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
Crowd Favorite: Whether at festivals or casual get-togethers, these murukkus are guaranteed to be a hit, leaving guests asking for your secret recipe!
Pairing Perfection: Enjoy them warm with masala chai—this combination will transport you to a cozy tea house in South India!
Butter Murukku Ingredients
For the Dough
• Rice Flour – Adds structure and crispiness; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
• Besan (Chickpea Flour) – Provides flavor and texture; can be swapped with more rice flour for a lighter murukku.
• Softened Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted butter to control saltiness.
• Cumin Seeds – Imparts earthy flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Hing (Asafoetida) – Adds umami and depth; substitute with garlic powder if unavailable.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; omit or reduce if using salted butter.
• Water – Binds the dough; adjust the amount to achieve the correct consistency.
How to Make Butter Murukku
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Prepare Dough: In a bowl, combine rice flour, besan, cumin seeds, hing, salt, and softened butter. Mix with your hands until crumbly. Gradually add water until it transforms into a tight, smooth dough.
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Prepare Murukku Maker: Load your dough into a murukku press fitted with a star-shaped stencil or use a piping bag with a star nozzle for shaping.
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Heat Oil: In a kadai, pour enough oil for deep frying. Heat it to the right temperature—test by dropping a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
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Shape & Fry: Squeeze and cut the dough into short strips above the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until they turn golden brown and the sizzling sound lessens.
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Drain: Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the murukkus and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
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Serve: Enjoy these crispy delights fresh with a cup of evening chai! They can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Optional: Sprinkle with a touch of chili powder for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Butter Murukku Variations
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder to the dough for a fiery version that’ll tingle your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in crushed dried curry leaves or mint for a refreshing herbal touch. These add a surprising flavor burst!
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in a tablespoon of grated cheese before shaping to give your murukkus a savory richness that cheese lovers will adore.
- Nutty Garnish: Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top before frying for an added crunch and a nutty flavor. This simple addition elevates texture beautifully!
- Flavored Butter: Use garlic or herb-infused butter for a fragrant twist that enhances every bite. You’ll love the aroma while frying!
- Different Flours: Swap part of the rice flour with quinoa flour for a unique flavor and increased protein content. This twist ensures a crispy treat while catering to health enthusiasts!
- Sweet Surprise: Add a tablespoon of sugar for a slightly sweet version that pairs perfectly with tea, creating an interesting contrast to the savory base.
- Dipping Sauce: Experiment by serving with tangy chutneys or yogurt dips to elevate your snacking experience and introduce new flavor profiles!
Make Ahead Options
These Butter Murukku are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still enjoying delicious homemade snacks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply combine the rice flour, besan, cumin seeds, hing, salt, and softened butter as instructed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to fry, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, then load it into your murukku press. Frying them fresh ensures that they’ll be just as crispy and delightful. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a quick and satisfying treat ready whenever a craving strikes!
How to Store and Freeze Butter Murukku
Room Temperature: Store murukkus in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their crispy texture.
Fridge: Although refrigeration is not recommended due to humidity, if necessary, keep them in a sealed container for up to a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the murukkus in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw and re-crisp in a hot oven.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover Butter Murukku, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch.
Expert Tips for Butter Murukku
• Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is not too wet; it should hold together tightly without crumbling to avoid oily murukkus.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the right frying temperature; if the oil is too hot or cold, your murukkus won’t cook evenly, affecting the texture.
• Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and ensure that each Butter Murukku gets crispy perfection without overcrowding.
• Shape Variation: Use different stencils to create fun shapes; varying designs not only enhances presentation but can make the snacking experience even more enjoyable!
• Storage Tips: After cooling, store murukkus in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.
• Flavor Boost: Consider adding spices like chili powder or turmeric to your dough for an extra layer of flavor in your Butter Murukku!
What to Serve with Butter Murukku?
As the enticing aroma of Butter Murukku fills your kitchen, think about delightful pairings that elevate this crispy treat even further.
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Masala Chai:
This spiced tea complements the buttery flavor with its warm spices, enhancing the overall snacking experience. -
Coconut Chutney:
The creamy texture and fresh coconut flavor offer a refreshing contrast, making it a perfect dipping companion. -
Spicy Pickles:
Adding a tangy, spicy pickle can elevate the flavors, providing a kick that contrasts with the rich murukku. -
Sambar:
This lentil-based dish brings a savory depth, adding a hearty element that’s traditional and satisfying. -
Sweet Chutney:
A sweet and tangy chutney balances the savory notes of the murukku, creating an exciting flavor combination. -
Fresh Salad:
A crisp salad with cucumbers and tomatoes introduces a refreshing element, lightening up the savory snack. -
Mango Lassi:
This creamy yogurt drink offers a sweet and cooling effect, contrasting beautifully with the spicy crunch. -
Coffee:
A cup of robust coffee enhances the warm, cozy feeling, making it an ideal pairing for a lovely afternoon snack.
Consider these pairings as a delightful way to enjoy your homemade Butter Murukku while celebrating the comforting essence of South Indian cuisine!
Butter Murukku Recipe FAQs
What type of rice flour should I use for Butter Murukku?
I recommend using fine rice flour for the best texture in your Butter Murukku. You could try a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute, but ensure that it has a similar consistency to rice flour. Using coarse flour might lead to a less crispy result.
How should I store Butter Murukku to keep it fresh?
To maintain the delicious crispiness of your Butter Murukku, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Keeping them in a cool, dry place helps prevent moisture from ruining their delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Butter Murukku, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Butter Murukku, let them cool completely after frying. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove any excess air, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature and re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my murukku dough is too wet?
If your murukku dough turns out too wet, fear not! Just add a little more rice flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a tight consistency. It should be smooth but not sticky, making it easy to shape without falling apart when frying.
Is Butter Murukku safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, Butter Murukku is generally nut-free, as it’s made primarily with rice flour and besan (chickpea flour). However, if you’re serving guests, it’s always best to check labels and ensure your ingredients haven’t been processed in facilities that handle nuts to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make my Butter Murukku spicier?
If you’re looking to add a spicy kick to your Butter Murukku, incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper into your dough. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your heat preference. You can also mix in spices like black pepper or even finely chopped curry leaves for additional flavor!
Crispy Butter Murukku with Besan and Rice Flour You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine rice flour, besan, cumin seeds, hing, salt, and softened butter. Mix with your hands until crumbly. Gradually add water until it transforms into a tight, smooth dough.
- Load your dough into a murukku press fitted with a star-shaped stencil or use a piping bag with a star nozzle for shaping.
- In a kadai, pour enough oil for deep frying. Heat it to the right temperature—test by dropping a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
- Squeeze and cut the dough into short strips above the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until they turn golden brown and the sizzling sound lessens.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the murukkus and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Enjoy these crispy delights fresh with a cup of evening chai! They can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.