Sardine fry is a mouth-watering deep fried side dish which makes a perfect combination for rice. It is a very popular dish in Kerala. Sardines also known as Mathi or Chaala in Kerala, is one the cheapest and tastiest fish available in South India. Sardines are one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids, which reduces triglycerides and cholesterol. The small bones of Sardines are good resource of calcium as well. Keralites usually make sardine curry, mathi vattichatu or sardine fry. Cleaning sardines takes time and needs patience. Use an apron while cleaning sardines and wash your hands with soap multiple times after cleaning sardines because they have a stinky smell. Frying sardine can make vegetarians go mad because it has an extreme strong smell.
Ingredients
- 6 nos. Sardine fish, cleaned
- 3 tsp. Black pepper powder
- 1 tsp. Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp. Red chilli powder
- Salt, as needed
- Curry leaves, a sprig
- 2 – 3 tbsp. Coconut oil
Method
- Clean the sardines well and make oblique gashes on both sides of the fish.
- Grind all other ingredients into a paste form.
- Marinate the Sardines/ Mathi with this paste and keep it aside for half an hour.
- Heat a frying pan and pour some oil in it. Add the curry leaves.
- When the oil gets heated place the sardines over the curry leaves and fry it on medium heat turning them to the other side in between.
- Switch off and serve immediately with rice.