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🌟 Introduction
Fish Fry is a crispy, spicy, and aromatic Indian delicacy that’s perfect as a starter, side dish, or main course. The key to a truly special fish fry lies in the marinade—flavored with classic Indian spices and shallow-fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re using seer fish (surmai), rohu, or pomfret, this recipe guarantees a restaurant-style experience at home.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Main Course, Non Veg
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Cost: 100

Ingredients

  • 500 g fish slices boneless or bone-in, cleaned
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1½ tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1½ tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • ½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp rice flour or semolina for crispiness
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil for shallow frying
  • Curry leaves optional, for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Fish

  • Pat dry the fish slices with a kitchen towel.
  • In a bowl, mix ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, lemon juice, salt, and rice flour/semolina.
  • Coat the fish pieces well with this marinade.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Fry the Fish

  • Heat oil in a pan over medium flame.
  • Gently place the marinated fish pieces into the pan.
  • Fry until golden brown on each side—about 3–4 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
  • Optional: Toss a few curry leaves in the oil for aroma and garnish.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and green chutney.
  • Pair it with rice and dal or fish curry for a hearty Indian lunch.
  • You can also serve it as an appetizer with mint mayo or tartar sauce.