Fry Trout Chittenad

In the vibrant state of Kerala, non-vegetarian households often feature a variety of fresh fish on their daily menu. The tradition of purchasing fresh fish from local vendors carrying bags of fish over their shoulders is a common sight. Kerala-style fried fish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. Fried fish is a popular dish across Asia, with unique marinating recipes that vary from region to region. Fish, known for its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, serves as an ideal protein source. Incorporating fish into your diet is crucial because the human body cannot produce all the necessary nutrients on its own. Additionally, if you’re looking to manage your weight, fish is an excellent dietary choice. This recipe pairs perfectly with hot steamed rice and a side of crispy papad, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Serving Size: 2 

INGREDIENTS:

• 400g fish (mackerel, sardines, pomfret, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 onions
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons ginger
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 2 teaspoons rice flour
• Oil for frying
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preparing the Fish:

1. Clean the fish pieces thoroughly and wash them with water.
2. In a bowl, add turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice. Coat the fish pieces with this mixture and set them aside.

Making the Masala Paste:

1. Using a blender, create a paste by blending together onions, garlic cloves, ginger, and cumin seeds.

Marinating the Fish:

1. Transfer the masala paste to a mixing bowl and add rice flour, coriander powder, red chili powder, salt, and a    drizzle of oil.
2. Take the marinated fish pieces and evenly coat them with the masala paste.
3. Allow the fish to marinate for a minimum of 2 hours to infuse the flavors.

Frying the Fish:

1. Heat oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish pieces one by one.
3. Fry the fish until one side is golden and crispy, then flip them over to cook the other side.
4. Once both sides are cooked to perfection, remove the fish from the oil and place them on a clean cloth to drain excess oil.
5. Serve the delicious Malayali-style fried fish with a steaming cup of freshly boiled rice.

TIPS:

• Fish Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality fish for the best results. Common choices in Kerala include mackerel, sardines, or pomfret, but you can use your preferred variety.
• Marinating Time: Allow the fish to marinate for at least 2 hours to ensure that the flavors penetrate the fish pieces thoroughly.
• Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent frying temperature to achieve crispy and evenly cooked fish. Use a thermometer if necessary.

Enjoy the delightful flavors and crispy texture of this Kerala-inspired fried fish dish. The marination process ensures that every bite is bursting with aromatic spices, making it a fantastic addition to your meal repertoire. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it alone, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.