What are the different types of murukku, and how do they differ in taste and texture? From classic rice murukku and buttery varieties to delicate Thenkuzhal and crispy ribbon murukku, there are many ways to enjoy this traditional South Indian snack.
The main differences come from the flour, seasonings, added ingredients and mould used to shape the dough. These small changes can create noticeably different flavours, textures and shapes.
In this guide, let’s explore 10 popular murukku varieties, what makes each one unique and which type you may want to try at home.
Popular Murukku Varieties at a Glance
| Murukku Variety | Flavour | Texture | Typical Shap |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Rice Murukku |
Mild and savoury
|
Crisp |
Spiral |
|
Butter Murukku |
Rich and buttery
|
Light and tender
|
Spiral or coils
|
|
Thenkuzhal Murukku |
Mild and savoury
|
Delicate and crisp |
Thin coils |
|
Sesame Murukku
|
Nutty and savoury
|
Crisp with a slight crunch |
Spiral |
|
Garlic Murukku
|
Strong and savoury
|
Crisp
|
Spiral
|
|
Pepper Murukku
|
Warm and peppery
|
Crisp |
Spiral |
|
Besan Murukku
|
Mild and savoury |
Crunchy
|
Spiral
|
|
Ribbon Murukku |
Spicy and savoury |
Thin and crisp |
Flat ribbons
|
|
Spicy Murukku |
Chilli-forward
|
Crisp
|
Spiral
|
|
Coconut Murukku |
Mild and aromatic |
Crisp |
Spiral or pressed shapes |
10 Murukku Types to Try
1. Traditional Rice Murukku
Traditional Rice Murukku is one of the most familiar South Indian snack varieties, known for its crisp texture and mild savoury flavour. It is usually shaped into classic spirals using a murukku press. Its simple taste makes it suitable for festivals, tea-time and everyday snacking. It is also a good choice if you prefer a traditional murukku without strong additional flavours.
2. Butter Murukku
Butter Murukku is a popular variety known for its rich buttery flavour and delicate, crisp texture. The addition of butter gives the murukku a slightly softer and more tender bite compared with firmer varieties. It is commonly enjoyed during festivals and celebrations, but also makes a delicious tea-time snack.
3. Thenkuzhal Murukku
Thenkuzhal is a traditional type of murukku known for its thin strands and light, delicate texture. It is usually made using a mould with fine openings, giving it a distinctive appearance compared with thicker spiral murukku. Its mild savoury flavour allows the crisp texture to stand out. Thenkuzhal is especially popular during festive occasions and as a light evening snack.
4. Spicy Murukku
Spicy Murukku is a flavourful variation for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their snacks. Chilli powder and other seasonings can give it a stronger, more noticeable flavour than traditional mild murukku. Despite the added spice, it retains the crunchy texture associated with the snack. It is a good option for serving alongside tea or adding variety to a festive snack platter.
5. Sesame Murukku
Sesame Murukku combines the familiar crunch of murukku with the pleasant nutty flavour of sesame seeds. The seeds add a subtle texture and make each bite slightly different from a plain rice murukku. Its flavour is savoury but not usually overpowering, making it suitable for both festive occasions and everyday snacking. It is a simple choice if you enjoy the taste of toasted sesame.
6. Garlic Murukku
Garlic Murukku gives the traditional snack a stronger savoury character with the distinctive flavour and aroma of garlic. The garlic adds depth to the seasoning while the murukku remains crisp and crunchy. Compared with milder varieties, it has a more noticeable taste that makes it appealing to garlic lovers. It is a great option when you want something more flavourful than a classic murukku.
7. Besan Murukku
Besan Murukku is a variation that includes gram flour, giving it a slightly different flavour and texture from traditional rice-based murukku. It has a savoury taste with a satisfying crunchy bite and can be shaped into familiar spiral forms. The use of besan makes it an interesting alternative for those who want to try something beyond the classic varieties. It is also well suited to festive snack collections.
8. Pepper Murukku
Pepper Murukku brings the warm, mildly spicy flavour of black pepper to the traditional snack. It offers a gentler type of heat compared with chilli-based spicy murukku, while still adding plenty of flavour. The pepper gives the murukku a pleasant savoury character without overpowering its crisp texture. It is a good choice for those who enjoy lightly spiced snacks.
9. Coconut Murukku
Coconut Murukku is a flavourful variation that brings a mild coconut taste and aroma to the traditional snack. The coconut gives the murukku a slightly different character while maintaining its familiar crisp texture. Its gentle flavour makes it suitable for people who prefer less intense seasonings. It can be enjoyed during festive occasions or simply as a homemade tea-time snack.
10. Ribbon Murukku
Ribbon Murukku stands out immediately because of its thin, flat shape rather than the traditional spiral form. It is made using a ribbon-shaped mould, which gives the snack its broad and distinctive appearance. Its thin structure creates a crisp, crunchy bite, while the savoury seasoning adds plenty of flavour.
How Are Different Murukku Varieties Different?
Although the basic preparation remains similar, small changes in ingredients and shaping methods can create noticeably different snacks.
Ingredients
Rice flour is commonly used in many murukku varieties, while ingredients such as urad dal flour, besan, butter, sesame, pepper, garlic and coconut can change the flavour and texture.
Shape
The murukku press and mould play an important role in the final appearance. Spiral, thin-coiled and ribbon-shaped murukku are some of the common forms.
Flavour
Some varieties are mild and savoury, while others have a stronger flavour from butter, pepper, garlic, chilli, sesame or coconut.
Texture
The flour combination, dough consistency and frying process all influence whether a murukku feels delicate, light, crunchy or more substantial.
How to Choose a Murukku Variety
Not sure which type of murukku to try first? Your choice can depend on the flavour and texture you enjoy.
- For a classic flavour: Try Rice Murukku.
- For a rich taste: Choose Butter Murukku.
- For a lighter texture: Thenkuzhal is a good option.
- For nutty flavour: Try Sesame Murukku.
- For bold savoury flavour: Garlic Murukku is worth trying.
- For gentle spice: Choose Pepper Murukku.
- For chilli lovers: Spicy Murukku is a better choice.
- For a different shape: Try Ribbon Murukku.
- For a gram-flour variation: Choose Besan Murukku.
- For a mild new flavour: Coconut Murukku can be an interesting option.
For more detailed information about murukku ingredients, preparation and techniques, you can also read our Complete Guide to Murukku
Tips for Making Crispy Murukku
- Use fresh flour: Fresh flour helps improve the flavour and texture.
- Get the dough right: Keep the dough soft and smooth—not too dry or sticky.
- Maintain medium heat: The right oil temperature helps the murukku cook evenly without becoming greasy.
- Avoid overcrowding: Fry in small batches to maintain a steady oil temperature.
- Cool before storing: Let the murukku cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Food safety: Follow basic food hygiene and safe storage practices when preparing homemade snacks.
Conclusion
From classic Rice Murukku and delicate Thenkuzhal to rich Butter Murukku, spicy varieties and crunchy Ribbon Murukku, there are many murukku varieties to explore.
The flour, seasonings, added ingredients and mould can all change the final flavour, texture and appearance. Whether you’re preparing snacks for Diwali, another festive occasion or a simple evening at home, trying different types of murukku is an easy way to add variety to your snack plate.
Looking for a convenient option for homemade murukku? Explore Anil Foods Murukku Flour for an easier preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the different types of murukku?
Popular types of murukku include Rice Murukku, Butter Murukku, Thenkuzhal, Sesame Murukku, Garlic Murukku, Pepper Murukku, Besan Murukku, Ribbon Murukku, Spicy Murukku and Coconut Murukku.
2. Which murukku is the crispiest?
The texture depends on the recipe, dough consistency and frying process. Thenkuzhal and Ribbon Murukku are known for their delicate or thin shapes, which can give them a particularly crisp bite.
3. What is the difference between murukku and Thenkuzhal?
Thenkuzhal is a type of murukku that is usually thinner and more delicate. It is pressed through a mould with smaller openings, creating fine strands rather than a thicker spiral.
4. Which murukku is made with butter?
Butter Murukku gets its characteristic rich flavour and tender texture from butter added to the dough.
5. Which murukku is spicy?
Spicy Murukku generally contains chilli powder or other seasonings for extra heat. Pepper Murukku provides a milder, pepper-based spiciness.
6. What is Ribbon Murukku?
Ribbon Murukku is a flat and thin variation made using a ribbon-shaped mould. Its broad, thin shape gives it a characteristic crisp texture.
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