Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner? Look no further! This fried fish Indian recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a delightful blend of spices and crispy texture that will tantalize your taste buds. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and is a fantastic example of delicious dishes created with simple ingredients. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb firm white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock work well), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Season the fish generously with salt.
Step 2: Making the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt. Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
Step 3: Coating the Fish
Dip each piece of fish into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess batter.
Step 4: Frying the Fish
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of batter sizzles immediately), carefully add the battered fish pieces to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Draining and Serving
Remove the fried fish from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like rice, roti, or a fresh salad. This easy recipe makes a wonderful quick dinner idea.
Tips for the Best Fried Fish:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Check for doneness: The fish is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use fresh fish: Fresh fish will always yield the best results.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Fried Fish: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the batter, along with some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
- Spicy Fried Fish: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Garlic Fried Fish: Add 2-3 minced cloves of garlic to the batter for a flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type and quantity of fish used. For a 4-serving recipe using cod:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This fried fish Indian recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and the satisfaction of creating a wonderful homemade meal!