Crispy Masala Fish Fry With Coconut: A Flavorful Kerala Delight
When it comes to coastal cuisine, Kerala’s culinary repertoire shines with its vibrant flavors and unique preparations. One such standout dish is Crispy Masala Fish Fry with Coconut, a mouthwatering recipe that blends the spiciness of traditional masalas with the rich, nutty essence of grated coconut.
A Perfect Blend of Spices and Coconut
The highlight of the dish lies in its seasoning. Fresh fish fillets are coated in a spicy marinade featuring a mix of turmeric, red chili powder, black pepper, and aromatic garam masala. What sets this dish apart is the addition of finely grated coconut, which not only enhances the flavor but also adds a distinct crunch to the crispy outer layer. The coconut complements the spices beautifully, offering a balance between heat and texture.
Why This Dish Stands Out in Kerala Cuisine
In Kerala, fish fry is a staple, but this dish takes it to another level. The use of coconut is a nod to the region’s abundant coconut palms and the integral role the ingredient plays in Kerala cuisine. The crispy exterior with coconut bits provides a delightful contrast to the soft, flaky fish inside, making it a favorite in both home kitchens and local eateries.
Best Fish Varieties for Crispy Masala Fish Fry
For the perfect dish, choosing the right type of fish is essential. Popular choices include Pearl Spot (Karimeen), Seer Fish (Neymeen), and Mackerel (Ayala). These fish varieties absorb the spices well and retain their juiciness after frying, while the coconut enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, Kerala-style matta rice, or even as a side with a simple dal curry. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon and some thinly sliced onions enhances the flavor further. Whether served during festive occasions or as a weekend treat, the dish is sure to impress seafood lovers.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to explore the rich, coastal flavors of Kerala, the dish is a must-try. Its spicy, crispy texture with the subtle sweetness of coconut creates a flavor explosion that perfectly captures the essence of Kerala’s seafood tradition.
Crispy Masala Fish Fry With Coconut
Ingredients
- 6 Nos. Fish here used mackerel
- 1 Cup Grated coconut
- 1 Tbsp Fennel seeds Perumjeerakam
- 1 Pod Garlic
- 1 Inch piece Ginger
- 1 Tbsp Red chilly powder
- ½ Tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 Tsp Coriander powder
- 3 Nos. Green chillies
- 3 Tbsp Water
- 1 Tbsp Lemon juice
- Few Curry leaves
- Coconut oil for frying
- Salt As reqd
Instructions
- Clean the fish and make slits on it as shown in the figure.
- Take a bowl and add grated coconut, fennel seeds, coriander powder, chilly powder, turmeric powder, garlic, ginger and salt as required.
- Combine well.
- Add this mixture into a mixer grinder along with green chillies and little water.
- Grind to make a semi coarse paste.
- Add the ground paste and some curry leaves into the cleaned fish. Add lemon juice.
- Marinate the fish with this and keep aside for just 10 minutes.
- Heat a pan with oil. To get a kerala taste use coconut oil. When the oil becomes just hot enough, place the fish in the oil and fry on a medium flame.
- After 3-4 minutes, turn it to the other side and add curry leaves. Fry until the fish is cooked through.
- Serve hot along with rice, chappathi etc…
Notes
Crispy Masala Fish Fry With Coconut
Ingredients
- 6 Nos. Fish here used mackerel
- 1 Cup Grated coconut
- 1 Tbsp Fennel seeds Perumjeerakam
- 1 Pod Garlic
- 1 Inch piece Ginger
- 1 Tbsp Red chilly powder
- ½ Tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 Tsp Coriander powder
- 3 Nos. Green chillies
- 3 Tbsp Water
- 1 Tbsp Lemon juice
- Few Curry leaves
- Coconut oil for frying
- Salt As reqd
Instructions
- Clean the fish and make slits on it as shown in the figure.
- Take a bowl and add grated coconut, fennel seeds, coriander powder, chilly powder, turmeric powder, garlic, ginger and salt as required.
- Combine well.
- Add this mixture into a mixer grinder along with green chillies and little water.
- Grind to make a semi coarse paste.
- Add the ground paste and some curry leaves into the cleaned fish. Add lemon juice.
- Marinate the fish with this and keep aside for just 10 minutes.
- Heat a pan with oil. To get a kerala taste use coconut oil. When the oil becomes just hot enough, place the fish in the oil and fry on a medium flame.
- After 3-4 minutes, turn it to the other side and add curry leaves. Fry until the fish is cooked through.
- Serve hot along with rice, chappathi etc…
Notes
Crispy Masala Fish Fry With Coconut
Ingredients
- 6 Nos. Fish here used mackerel
- 1 Cup Grated coconut
- 1 Tbsp Fennel seeds Perumjeerakam
- 1 Pod Garlic
- 1 Inch piece Ginger
- 1 Tbsp Red chilly powder
- ½ Tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 Tsp Coriander powder
- 3 Nos. Green chillies
- 3 Tbsp Water
- 1 Tbsp Lemon juice
- Few Curry leaves
- Coconut oil for frying
- Salt As reqd
Instructions
- Clean the fish and make slits on it as shown in the figure.
- Take a bowl and add grated coconut, fennel seeds, coriander powder, chilly powder, turmeric powder, garlic, ginger and salt as required.
- Combine well.
- Add this mixture into a mixer grinder along with green chillies and little water.
- Grind to make a semi coarse paste.
- Add the ground paste and some curry leaves into the cleaned fish. Add lemon juice.
- Marinate the fish with this and keep aside for just 10 minutes.
- Heat a pan with oil. To get a kerala taste use coconut oil. When the oil becomes just hot enough, place the fish in the oil and fry on a medium flame.
- After 3-4 minutes, turn it to the other side and add curry leaves. Fry until the fish is cooked through.
- Serve hot along with rice, chappathi etc…
Notes
Crispy Masala Fish Fry With Coconut
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