Puffed rice, also known as murmura in India, is a light, airy snack that's incredibly versatile and surprisingly satisfying. Made from puffed rice grains, it adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavour to any dish. But puffed rice isn't just for snacking! This readily available ingredient forms the base for deliciously easy dishes perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon pick-me-up, a light and healthy breakfast, or a side dish to compliment a meal, puffed rice comes to the rescue. Here are easy puffed rice dishes you can whip up in no time-
This quintessential street food from Mumbai is a vibrant explosion of textures and flavours. Combine puffed rice with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cilantro. Add a generous sprinkle of chopped green chillies for a touch of heat, followed by a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of tamarind chutney. Don't forget the crunchy sev (fried gram noodles) for an extra textural dimension. Bhel puri is a flavour bomb guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
For a moreish and savory snack, try masala murmura. In a pan, you must heat some oil and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter, then add chopped curry leaves and dried red chillies. Once fragrant, add chopped cashews and peanuts for a nutty crunch. Now, throw in the puffed rice and roast it until slightly golden.
Not all puffed rice dishes are savoury! These sweet bars are a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought treats. Combine puffed rice with chopped nuts, dried fruits like cranberries and raisins, and honey or maple syrup for an added sweetness. Bind the mixture with melted butter or coconut oil and press it firmly into a baking tray. Refrigerate for a few hours, then cut into bars for a satisfying and guilt-free snack.
Chevda is a dry snack mix that can be customized to your liking. Combine puffed rice with roasted peanuts, cashews, and chopped dried fruits. Add some chopped fried onions or crumbled sev for an extra savoury kick. Spice things up with red chilli powder or chaat masala.
Upma, a savoury semolina porridge, gets an easy makeover with puffed rice. Sauté chopped onions, curry leaves, and green chillies in a pan with oil. Add chopped vegetables like carrots and peas, or include cooked lentils for extra protein. Pour in vegetable stock or water and let it simmer until thickened. Finally, fold in the puffed rice and season with salt and your favourite spices.
Try coconut ladoos made with puffed rice for a sweet and festive treat. Roast the puffed rice with ghee or coconut oil until slightly golden. In another pan, cook grated coconut with condensed milk or sugar until it thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. Combine the roasted puffed rice with the cooked coconut mixture and add chopped nuts and cardamom powder for additional flavour. Shape the mixture into bite-sized ladoos and refrigerate for a few hours. These coconut ladoos are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any guilt.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. With its versatility and ease of use, puffed rice offers endless possibilities for creating delicious and satisfying dishes. So, next time you're looking for a quick and easy snack, don't underestimate the humble puffed rice!
