Kerala, known for its rich culinary heritage, offers a delightful array of flavors, and its fish fry is a beloved dish that captures the essence of its coastal cuisine. This recipe brings you the authentic taste of Kerala’s fish fry, combining aromatic spices and perfectly fried fish for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of fish fillets (such as Kingfish, Pomfret, or Seer Fish)
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves (a handful)
- Coconut oil (for frying)
Instruction:
- Clean and Prep the Fish:
- Wash the fish fillets thoroughly and pat them dry using a paper towel.
- Make a few shallow cuts on the fish fillets. This helps the marinade penetrate the flesh and enhances the flavor.
- Marinate the Fish:
- In a bowl, combine red chili powder, turmeric powder, black pepper powder, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth paste.
- Rub this marinade all over the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Fry the Fish:
- Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Coconut oil is traditional for authentic Kerala flavor, but you can use any oil of your preference.
- Once the oil is hot, add a few curry leaves to infuse the oil with their aroma.
- Carefully place the marinated fish fillets into the hot oil. Be cautious to avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once the fish is cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove the fried fish from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the fish with a few more curry leaves for an added burst of flavor and aroma.
- Serve the Kerala fish fry hot, accompanied by sliced onions and lemon wedges for a refreshing touch. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, coconut rice, or even as an appetizer.
Enjoy the Authentic Flavors:
This Kerala fish fry recipe captures the essence of Kerala’s coastal cuisine. The blend of aromatic spices, the crispiness of the fried fish, and the hint of coconut oil come together to create a dish that’s not just a meal but a culinary experience. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or looking to explore new flavors, this Kerala fish fry is sure to delight your taste buds with its authentic and mouthwatering taste.