Onion Murukku
Onion Murukku is a delightful variation of the traditional South Indian snack, murukku. This version incorporates the savory and slightly sweet flavor of onions into the crispy, spiral-shaped snack. It's popular in many South Indian households, particularly during festive seasons like Diwali or as an evening tea-time snack.
Contents
- Rice Flour: The main ingredient, providing a light and crispy texture.
- Gram Flour (Besan): Adds a rich flavor and contributes to the protein content.
- Onions: Finely chopped or grated onions are mixed into the dough, adding moisture, flavor, and a slight sweetness to the murukku.
- Spices: Cumin seeds, red chili powder, and sometimes green chilies or black pepper are used to enhance the flavor.
- Butter or Ghee: Used in the dough to make the murukku tender and crispy.
- Salt and Water: To bind the ingredients together.
The dough is prepared by mixing all the ingredients, and then it is shaped into spirals using a murukku press. The shaped murukku is then deep-fried until golden brown and crisp.
Benefits
- Rich in Carbohydrates: The rice flour base makes Onion Murukku a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
- Protein Content: The addition of gram flour increases the protein content, which is beneficial for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Antioxidant Properties: Onions are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which helps reduce inflammation and fight free radicals in the body.
- Digestive Benefits: Spices like cumin seeds and chili powder aid in digestion and can help prevent bloating and indigestion.
- Heart Health: Onions contain compounds that may help reduce cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. When made with moderate amounts of oil, Onion Murukku can be a part of a balanced diet.
- Fiber Content: Depending on the exact recipe, the combination of flours and onions can provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.