How to Make Delicious Kerala-Style Fish Fry
Kerala-style fish fry is a mouthwatering dish that combines fresh fish, aromatic spices, and a delightful cooking technique that captures the essence of South Indian cuisine. This dish is not only popular in Kerala but also has gained admiration worldwide for its unique flavors and crispy texture. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making a delicious Kerala-style fish fry that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 500 grams of fresh fish (such as tilapia, pomfret, or sardines)
- 2 tablespoons of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying (coconut oil preferred for authenticity)
- Curry leaves for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Clean and Marinate the Fish
Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly under running water. Make sure to remove the scales and guts, if necessary. Pat the fish dry with a kitchen towel. In a mixing bowl, combine the red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Apply this marinade generously over the fish, ensuring every part is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to seep in. For best results, marinate for 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
After marination, take the fish out and coat it lightly with rice flour. The rice flour will add a delightful crispiness to the fish when fried. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan, heat enough oil to shallow fry the fish. If you’re using coconut oil, be sure to heat it on medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of batter into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry the Fish
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated and coated fish in the pan. Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Add a few curry leaves to the oil while the fish fries for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Once cooked, transfer the fish to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Kerala-style fish fry hot with lemon wedges and a side of coconut chutney or onion salad. Garnish with more curry leaves for that authentic touch.
Tips for the Best Kerala-Style Fish Fry
- Choose the freshest fish available for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.
- For an extra kick, add slit green chilies or ginger-garlic paste to the marinade.
- Serving the fish with rice and a side of curry enhances the traditional experience.
Enjoy your homemade Kerala-style fish fry, a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Kerala right to your kitchen!