Chakkali (Round), also known as Murukku in Tamil Nadu and Janthikalu in Andhra, is one of the most popular and timeless South Indian snacks. Prepared with a blend of rice flour, urad dal flour, sesame seeds, cumin, and a touch of butter or ghee, the dough is pressed into round spiral shapes using a chakkali maker. These spirals are then deep-fried to achieve a perfectly crisp and crunchy texture.
Loved for its savory taste and delightful crunch, Chakkali is prepared during festivals like Diwali, Sankranti, and Dussehra, as well as enjoyed year-round as a tea-time snack. Its iconic round spiral shape not only makes it visually appealing but also symbolizes the tradition and heritage of homemade South Indian snacks.