A Superstar's Simple Craving
Even amidst a demanding career filled with high-octane performances, Telugu cinema icon Jr NTR has a fondness for a surprisingly down-to-earth evening
treat. In a candid conversation with Esquire Magazine, the renowned actor, aged 42, shared his go-to indulgence when the sun begins to set. Eschewing any notion of extravagance, he pinpointed a classic snack deeply embedded in South Indian culinary traditions. He fondly referred to it as 'Punugulu,' a name familiar in the vibrant city of Hyderabad. Jr NTR elaborated that these are essentially small, crispy fritters, best savored alongside a trio of delectable chutneys – specifically mentioning ginger and peanut varieties, highlighting the nuanced flavours that accompany this beloved street food.
Unpacking the Punugulu Mystery
Punugulu stands as a cherished deep-fried delicacy originating from the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with a particularly strong following in Hyderabad. At first glance, they might appear to be akin to small, fried lumps or mini bhajiyas. However, their distinctiveness lies in the unique batter from which they are crafted. Punugulu are traditionally prepared using leftover idli or dosa batter, which has undergone a slight fermentation process. This fermented base is then enhanced with finely chopped onions, fiery green chillies, aromatic curry leaves, and occasionally a pinch of cumin seeds, all contributing to a more complex flavour profile. This thoughtful combination of ingredients transforms a simple batter into a culinary sensation.
Crafting the Perfect Punugulu
The creation of Punugulu involves a straightforward yet skillful deep-frying technique. Small dollops of the thick, flavourful batter are carefully introduced into hot oil, where they sizzle and transform into perfectly golden-brown, crisp morsels on the exterior. The magic lies within; the fermented batter ensures that the inside remains delightfully soft and airy, offering a pleasing textural contrast to the crunchy shell. These delightful fritters are typically served immediately while they are still piping hot, a practice that enhances their overall appeal. To elevate the experience, they are traditionally paired with a selection of accompaniments, most commonly creamy coconut chutney, rich peanut chutney, or a zesty ginger chutney. The sharp, tangy notes of these chutneys cut through the mildness of the Punugulu, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying flavour combination that has captured the hearts of many.
