Murmura recipe | spicy puffed rice | Churumuri 

Spicy Murmura or Charamburi Upkari, a well-liked street-side snack originating from the Mangalore and Udupi regions of Karnataka, is a quick and easy preparation, taking less than 5 minutes.

Bhel puri and Jhal muri are well-liked evening snacks in Northern and Eastern India, while Charmuri is a popular puffed rice recipe from the western coastal region of India.

Indian Chaat Story!

In general, Indians adore street food, particularly a plate of chatpata chaat followed by garma garam chai (hot Indian tea). At various tourist attractions in the Mangalore/Udupi region, such as Car Street Venkatraman temple, Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt, Mangalore Dasara at Kudroli, Kadri Shree Manjnatha temple, Gommata Betta in Karkala, and even along the beachside or public parks, one can find small carts/establishments selling charmburi. The fondness for it is so immense that these days, the churmuri cart has become a familiar sight even at events like birthday parties, Mehendi ceremonies, and so on.

Bhel puri can be enjoyed with sweet or spicy chutney, but for churmuri or masala mandakki, fancy chutney or ingredients are not necessary. Basic pantry items are sufficient to make this dish, taking less than 5 minutes to assemble. It’s important to mix the puffed rice only when ready to eat/serve as it softens quickly when combined with the masala.

The distinctive taste of this dish comes from the addition of coconut oil during tossing. If coconut oil is unavailable, vegetable oil can be used, but the traditional signature flavor will be missed.

During the summer, grated or finely chopped raw mangoes are utilized to impart a distinctive flavor to the dish. Throughout India, numerous versions of this dish can be found, and I have been fortunate enough to sample a variety of them. However, this particular variation remains my favorite due to its unparalleled taste.

I will clarify important aspects when providing the recipe steps or tips. Therefore, kindly read through it once and relish this delightful snack.

Ingredients for Spicy Murmura

• Puffed rice or murmura – 3 cups
• Onion, finely chopped – ½
• Lemon – ½
• Tomato, finely chopped – 1
• Coriander leaves or cilantro chopped – 1 tbsp
• Raw mango, grated or finely chopped – 2 to 4 tbsp
• Roasted peanuts – 2 to 4 tbsp
• Salt, adjust to taste – ½ tsp
• Red chile powder, adjust to taste – 1 tsp
• Coconut oil – 1 tbsp

How to Make Spicy Murmura

Combine onion, tomato, coriander leaves, raw mangoes, lemon juice, roasted peanuts, salt, chile powder, and coconut oil in a spacious mixing bowl. Thoroughly mix the ingredients. Taste and adjust accordingly. It is possible to prepare this dish in advance and store it for later use.

To serve, simply mix the murmura or puffed rice together. Serve promptly and savor.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Murmura

I provide fresh murmura or puffed rice as needed, ensuring its constant crispness.

In case it lacks crispiness, you can dry roast it on a medium-low flame for 5 minutes until it becomes crisp.

Always use roasted peanuts. If you have raw peanuts, roast them first before adding to the recipe.

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust all the ingredients to your taste.

For an extra kick, finely chop and add small green chilies.

To enhance both color and taste, grated carrots and beetroot can also be included.

Prepare the masala in advance and simply toss it with the puffed rice when ready to eat.

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