KERALA FISH FRY (MEEN VARUTHATHU)

KERALA FISH FRY (MEEN VARUTHATHU)

 Kerala Fish Fry is a classic from the kitchens of Kerala, celebrated for its bold flavors and irresistible aroma.

Fresh fish pieces are generously marinated with a vibrant blend of turmeric, red chili powder, pepper, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and salt—ingredients that capture the essence of traditional Kerala seasoning.

Once the spices have infused deeply into the fish, the pieces are shallow-fried or pan-fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior and tender, succulent interior.

Simple yet full of character, this dish embodies the soul of Kerala’s culinary heritage and pairs beautifully with rice, curries, or enjoyed on its own as a flavorful starter.

 

Note

I have used sherry, you can also use other types of fish like hamour, king fish, pomfret etc.

You can add Kashmiri red chili powder instead of red chili powder if you do not want your fish fry too spicy

This recipe tastes better when cooked in coconut oil because authentic Kerala dishes are cooked using coconut oil, but you can use any cooking oil of your choice it tastes good too. 

KERALA FISH FRY

Servings

4 To 5

servings
Prep time

20 To 25

minutes
Cooking time

Approximately 10

minutes for each batch

Kerala Fish Fry is a flavorful dish made by marinating fish with turmeric, red chili powder, pepper, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and salt, then frying it until crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Ingredients

  • Fish- a little less than 1kg, cut into medium slices

  • A few tablespoons of cooking oil

  • 2 teaspoons of red chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder

  • 2 teaspoons of ginger garlic paste

  • 1 and a half to 2 teaspoons of lemon juice

  • Salt to taste

  • 1 tablespoon of water

Directions

  • Into a bowl add turmeric powder, red chili powder, pepper powder, ginger garlic paste, lemon juice, water and the required amount of salt

  • Mix well, marinate the fish pieces in this marinade for 15 minutes

  • Heat 2 to 3 tbspn of oil for each batch over a medium temperature

  • Add the fish pieces into the pan in batches

  • Fry them for 5 minutes or until cooked and then flip the fish pieces and fry for another 5 more minutes or until cooked

  • Repeat it for the next batches

  • Serve with rice and curry