A traditional Kerala fish fry recipe, usually the one used for Karimeen. This is known as Karimeen porichadu in Malayalam. Karimeen or Pearl spot fish, as it is commonly known, is a popular fish found in the brackish backwaters of Kerala. This fish is a delicacy in Kerala and is featured in many of their authentic dishes. In fact, Karimeen has been declared the official state fish of Kerala. The divine taste of this fish comes along with the pain of maneuvering delicate fingertips around the horrendously sharp and dangerous bones that this fish is full of. Nothing beats the taste of the delicate flesh enhanced by the flavors of fried curry leaves, caramelized onions, garlic and ginger. Along with the spiciness of red chilli and pepper powders, the aromatic sweetness of coriander and fennel really brings out the naadan flavors of this recipe. All of this comes along with a dash of tanginess from the lime that is to be squirted on it just before.

Ingredients:

• Pearl spot fish (Karimeen)- 3  (Scaled, cleaned and scored)
• Red onions- 3 small (roughly chopped)
• Ginger- 2 inches (skinned)
• Garlic- 6/10 pods (depending on size)
• Curry leaves- 4 large sprigs
• Fennel seeds (saunf)- 1 Tbsp (dry roasted)
• Coriander powder- 2 Tbsp
• Turmeric powder- 1 Tbsp
• Kashmiri red chilli powder- 5 Tbsp
• Pepper powder- 1 Tbsp
• Salt- as per taste
• Oil- to fry
• Lime wedges- to serve

Method:

1. Grind red onions, ginger, garlic, 2 of the 4 curry leave sprigs, turmeric powder, kashmiri red chilli powder, dry roasted fennel seeds, pepper powder, coriander powder and salt along with a little water to make a thick paste.
2. Apply this paste to the fish, applying well into the scored flesh and inside the stomach cavity. Keep aside to marinate for at least 2 hrs.
3. Heat oil in a shallow pan/ kadai ( I have used an earthen ware here). Add the rest of the curry leaves first then add the marinated fish and shallow fry well on both sides. The masala will blacken fast so please make sure to cook on a very low flame.
4. Serve with lime wedges.