Air-Fried Murukku: A Crunchy, Crispy, Healthy Twist!

Yes, you can make murukku in an air fryer. Murukku is a popular South Indian crunchy snack that is usually deep-fried. However, it can also be made in an air fryer, which reduces the calories and the need for constant monitoring. The process involves making a dough from various types of flour, spices, and fat, pressing it into a spiral shape, and then air-frying it. The result is a crispy, addictive snack that is perfect for parties or as a tea-time treat.

How to make the dough for murukku in an air fryer

Making the dough for murukku in an air fryer is a relatively simple process, but it does require some specific steps and ingredients to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to make the dough for murukku in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

First, gather all the necessary ingredients. The specific ingredients may vary slightly depending on the recipe, but the basic components typically include:

• Rice flour
• Chickpea flour (also known as gram flour or besan)
• Butter, ghee, or oil
• Salt
• Water
• Spices such as turmeric, chili powder, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, and asafoetida (hing)
• In some recipes, additional ingredients like urad dal, moong dal, or ajwain (carom seeds) are used.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients:

Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the rice flour, chickpea flour, salt, and any spices you are using. Mix them well to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Adding Fat and Water:

The next step is to incorporate the fat and water into the dry mixture. If using butter or ghee, rub it into the flour mixture with your fingers until it resembles crumbs. If using oil, combine it with the dry ingredients and mix well. Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture and knead it to form a soft yet stiff dough. The amount of water may vary, so add it slowly until you achieve the desired consistency.

Preparing the Dough:

Once the dough is formed, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This will also help the flavours meld together. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a small amount of water and knead it again. The dough should be soft yet firm enough to hold its shape.

Using a Chakli Press:

To shape the murukku, you will need a chakli press or murukku press. These are special moulds that help create the distinctive spiral shape of the snack. Grease the inside of the chakli press with oil and fill it with a small portion of the dough. You can also use a cookie press with a star-shaped disc or a cake icing bag with a regular nozzle if you don't have a chakli press.

Air Frying Instructions:

Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, typically around 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius. Brush or spray the chakli or murukku with oil before placing them in the air fryer basket. Air fry the snacks for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the murukku, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Cooling and Storing:

Once the murukku are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week to two weeks, depending on the recipe and storage conditions.

Making murukku in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying methods, and it still results in a delicious, crispy snack. By following these steps, you can create tasty murukku that your family and friends will surely enjoy!

The best temperature to air fry murukku

Air-frying murukku is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, and it can be done in a few simple steps. The best temperature to air fry murukku is between 350°F and 400°F (160°C and 200°C). This temperature range will ensure that the murukku is cooked through and has a crispy texture.

It is important to note that the temperature and timing of air frying can vary depending on the brand and model of the air fryer. It is recommended to keep an eye on the murukku after around 5 to 8 minutes to ensure that it does not burn. The total cooking time can range from 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the murukku.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

The first step is to prepare the murukku dough. The dough typically includes a combination of rice flour, chickpea flour, and spices such as turmeric, chili powder, and cumin seeds. It is important to add a small amount of fat, such as butter, ghee, or oil, to ensure a crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dough should be soft yet stiff, and it is crucial to add lukewarm water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature, which is typically between 350°F and 400°F. It is important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and to avoid the murukku from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Step 3: Shape the Murukku

Use a chakli or murukku press to shape the dough into spirals. If you do not have a chakli press, you can use a cookie press with a star-shaped disc or a cake icing bag with a regular nozzle. Place the shaped dough directly onto the air fryer mesh or basket, making sure to leave some space between each piece to avoid sticking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Murukku

Once the air fryer is preheated, brush or spray the murukku with oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Air fry the murukku at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the murukku, so it is important to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the murukku is cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool down. They can be served as a snack or enjoyed with tea or coffee. Murukku can be stored in an airtight container and will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

How to shape the murukku using a chakli press

To shape the murukku using a chakli press, you will need to prepare the chakli dough first. The dough should be soft yet stiff and not too wet.

• Place the chakli disc with a star shape into the chakli maker.
• Grease the chakli maker with some cooking oil or spray.
• Take a small portion of the dough and add it to the chakli maker, leaving about a centimetre of space from the top to close the lid.
• Screw the top of the chakli maker and press the handle.
• On a plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, press the handle and move the chakli maker in a circular motion to create the spiral shape. For a medium-sized chakli, make around 3-4 circular rounds.
• At the end of the fourth circular round, break the dough and secure it by gently pressing the loose end to the outermost circle.

You can now place the shaped murukku in the air fryer and follow the remaining steps of your chosen recipe.

How to store murukku

Murukku is a popular South Indian snack that can be stored in a variety of ways to preserve its freshness and crunchiness. Here are some detailed instructions on how to properly store Murukku:

Choosing the Right Container:

• Use an airtight container: Store your Murukku in an airtight container, preferably made of glass or stainless steel. Avoid using plastic containers as they can affect the freshness.
• Ensure the container is clean and dry before storing the Murukku.

Storing at Room Temperature:

• Murukku can be stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks if stored properly.
• Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
• Use clean, dry hands to remove Murukku from the container to avoid introducing moisture.

Storing in the Refrigerator:

• If you want to extend the shelf life of Murukku, you can store it in the refrigerator. Place the airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about a month.
• You can also freeze Murukku for longer-term storage. Place the airtight container in the freezer, where it will stay fresh for up to 6 months.

Re-crisping Murukku:

• If your Murukku loses its crispness over time, you can restore its crunchiness by placing it in an air fryer or oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.
• Alternatively, you can place the Murukku on a baking sheet and bake it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until it becomes crispy again.

Pros and cons of using an air fryer for murukku

Air fryers are a great alternative to deep-frying murukku, but they do come with their own set of pros and cons.

Pros:

• Healthier alternative: Air-fried murukku is a healthier option as it uses little to no oil, resulting in a low-fat snack.
• Less oily smell: Deep-fried murukku can develop a musty smell if stored for a long time, but air-fried murukku does not have this problem.
• No need for constant monitoring: With an air fryer, you can simply set the timer and check on it in between, whereas deep-frying requires constant stirring and flipping.
• Longer shelf life: Air-fried murukku can last for up to a month, whereas the deep-fried version has a shorter shelf life.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: Air-frying murukku can take a long time, especially if you're making a large batch. Deep-frying is a faster method.
• Texture: The texture of air-fried murukku may vary, and it can sometimes turn out too hard or soft depending on the dough consistency. Deep-fried murukku typically has a crispier texture.
• Batch size: Air fryers have limited space, so you can only cook a small batch at a time. Deep-frying allows for cooking larger quantities at once.
• Dough consistency: Achieving the right dough consistency for air-fried murukku can be tricky, and you may need to make adjustments to get it just right.

While air fryers offer a healthier and more convenient option, deep-frying is still the preferred method for those seeking the traditional crispy texture and taste of murukku.

Frequently asked questions