Crispy Spinach Murukku: A Healthy Twist To The South Indian Classic

Why Spinach Murukku?

Spinach Murukku brings a unique touch to the traditional recipe by incorporating fresh spinach leaves. Spinach is known for its nutritional benefits, including being rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. When combined with rice flour and spices, it elevates the flavour profile while adding a slight green hue that’s both appealing and appetising.

Ingredients Required:

• 2 cups of rice flour
• 1 tablespoon of urad dal flour
• 1 tablespoon of gram flour (besan)
• 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves (washed and chopped)
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 1 teaspoon of red chilli powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon of butter (softened)
• Water (as required)
• Oil (for deep frying)

Preparing Spinach Murukku:

1. Blending the Spinach: To begin, blanch the spinach leaves in hot water for about 2–3 minutes until they turn soft. Drain the water and blend the leaves into a smooth paste without adding additional water. This helps to achieve a fine consistency that will mix well with the flour.

2. Mixing the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, urad dal flour, and gram flour. Add cumin seeds, sesame seeds, asafoetida, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

3. Adding Spinach and Butter: To the dry mixture, add the spinach paste and softened butter. Start kneading the dough, adding water gradually. The dough should be soft but firm, not sticky. Ensure it is well-kneaded to avoid cracks while shaping.

4. Shaping the Murukku: Prepare the Murukku mould with the star-shaped disc. Grease the mould lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Fill the mould with the spinach-infused dough. On a parchment paper or a clean cloth, press the mould gently, moving in a circular motion to form spirals. Make sure the spirals are even and not too thick for better cooking.

5. Frying to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium flame. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into it—if it sizzles and rises, the oil is perfect. Carefully slide the shaped Murukkus into the hot oil, a few at a time. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

Fry the Murukkus until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep the flame consistent to avoid burning. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on kitchen paper.

6. Cooling and Storing: Allow the fried Spinach Murukkus to cool completely before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness. They can be stored for up to two weeks if kept in a cool, dry place.

Serving Suggestions: Spinach Murukku is perfect as a teatime snack, a festive delicacy, or even as a quick munch during travel. Its light, crispy texture with a hint of spinach makes it an instant favourite. Pair it with a hot cup of masala tea or filter coffee for a delightful experience.

Customising Your Spinach Murukku:

You can easily customise this recipe by adding a bit of garlic paste or crushed curry leaves for added flavour. If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red chilli powder or add a pinch of black pepper to the dough.

Health Benefits of Spinach Murukku:

While Murukku is generally considered a deep-fried indulgence, the inclusion of spinach provides a nutritious edge. Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and magnesium, making this snack a healthier choice compared to regular fried snacks.

Spinach Murukku is a wonderful way to enjoy the traditional taste of South Indian snacks while incorporating the health benefits of spinach. Its crisp texture, combined with earthy flavours, makes it a crowd-pleaser at any event or celebration. So, the next time you crave something crunchy and delicious, try making Spinach Murukku at home—savour the tradition with a touch of green goodness.