Diwali Delights: 3 Unique Snack Recipes to Celebrate the Festival of Lights

1. Kawuni Arisi Murukku

This classic Murukku gets a unique twist with the use of black rice, also known as Kawuni Arisi in Tamil. Renowned for its rich anthocyanin content—an antioxidant powerhouse—black rice adds a delightful chocolate brown hue and nutritional benefits to this festive treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black rice (Kawuni Arisi)
• 1/4 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ghee
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
• Oil for deep frying
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Wash the black rice and soak it for at least two hours.
2. Drain and spread the rice on a cloth to dry completely.
3. Grind the dried black rice into a fine powder using a mixer.
4. In a bowl, combine the black rice flour, gram flour, asafoetida, sesame seeds, red chili powder, salt, and ghee.
5. Gradually add water to knead a soft dough; ensure it’s smooth.
6. Fill a Murukku press with the dough and squeeze into hot oil in the desired shape.
7. Deep fry in medium-hot oil until crispy and golden brown, flipping to cook evenly.
8. Drain on tissue paper and store in an airtight container once cooled.

2. Ribbon Pakoda

Named for its unique ribbon-like shape, Ribbon Pakoda is a festive snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1 cup rice flour
• 1 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 3/4 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt and water to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix rice flour, gram flour, red chili powder, melted butter, oil, asafoetida, and salt thoroughly.
2. Gradually add water to form a sticky dough.
3. Use a ribbon pakoda mold to create the shape, pressing into hot oil in circular motions.
4. Fry until golden brown, flipping for even cooking.
5. Drain on tissue paper and allow to cool before storing in an airtight container.

3. Karuveppilai Murukku

A fascinating version of Murukku, Karuveppilai Murukku incorporates the aromatic goodness of curry leaves. This recipe draws inspiration from popular vegetarian restaurants in Coimbatore.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/4 cup roasted gram flour
• 1/2 cup tightly packed curry leaves
• 3 green chilies
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• Oil for deep frying
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine rice flour, roasted gram flour, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, salt, and asafoetida.
2. Blend the curry leaves, garlic, and green chilies with a little water to a smooth paste. Strain and add this paste to the flour mixture.
3. Knead the mixture well and cover it with a cloth for 5 minutes.
4. Use a Murukku press to shape the dough, squeezing it into hot oil.
5. Fry until crispy and golden brown, ensuring even cooking.
6. Drain on tissue paper and cool before storing in an airtight container.

Celebrate Diwali with These Tasty Treats

These unique snacks are perfect additions to your Diwali festivities. With their delicious flavors and enticing aromas, they’re sure to delight your family and friends, making your celebrations even more special! Enjoy making these delightful treats and indulge in the flavors of Diwali!