Amritsari Fish Fry Recipe – A Punjabi Delicacy
Amritsari Fish Fry is a delectable dry fish preparation that hails from the vibrant streets of Amritsar, Punjab. Known for its aromatic and spicy marination, this dish features fish coated with a flavorful blend of traditional Indian spices and shallow-fried to a crispy, golden perfection. Often enjoyed as a popular street food snack, Amritsari Fish Fry is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a side dish to spice up your meal. With its rich flavors and high protein content, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Seer Fish | 2 pieces |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garam Masala Powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 teaspoon (pounded) |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 teaspoon |
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Nutralite Classic Spread | For shallow frying |
Preparation Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Mixture:
Begin by preparing all the masala ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine turmeric powder, red chilli powder, amchur (dry mango powder), garam masala powder, ajwain (carom seeds), ginger garlic paste, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). Stir everything together to ensure it forms a well-combined, aromatic spice mix. -
-
Marinate the Fish:
Add lemon juice and salt to the spice mixture. Mix well, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed. Now, take the fish pieces (preferably seer fish for its firm texture and mild flavor) and coat them thoroughly with the marinated spices. Let the fish marinate for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the spices to infuse deep into the fish. -
Roast the Gram Flour (Besan):
While the fish is marinating, heat a dry pan over medium heat and add gram flour (besan). Gently roast the besan, stirring constantly until it turns light brown in color and releases a slightly nutty aroma. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. -
Shallow Fry the Fish:
Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat and add Nutralite Classic Spread (or any other suitable cooking spread). Once the spread melts and is hot, carefully place the marinated fish pieces in the pan. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden and crispy. -
Sprinkle Besan and Flip:
Once the fish is golden on one side, sprinkle a light coating of the roasted besan over the top of each fish piece. This will add extra crunch and a unique flavor to the fry. Flip the fish carefully and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until both sides are evenly crisped and the fish is cooked through. -
Final Frying:
Continue frying the fish on both sides until it is crispy and the besan has perfectly adhered to the fish. This should take an additional 5 minutes, making sure the fish is thoroughly cooked and the coating is well-browned. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the fish is perfectly fried and crispy, turn off the heat. Serve your Amritsari Fish Fry hot with fresh sliced onions, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped coriander leaves. This dish is best enjoyed as an appetizer with some Nutralite Achari Mayo or Nutralite Cheesy Garlic Mayo for a tangy and creamy dip.
Tips for Perfect Amritsari Fish Fry
- Fish Selection: While seer fish is the traditional choice due to its firm texture, you can also use other firm fish like pomfret, cod, or tilapia.
- Marination Time: The longer the fish marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes for a good infusion of the spices.
- Browning the Besan: Ensure that you roast the besan to a light brown color; this adds flavor and prevents it from tasting raw.
- Shallow Frying: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of Nutralite Classic Spread or use a non-stick pan to minimize the oil required for frying.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve with Nutralite Cheesy Garlic Mayo or a tangy chutney as a dipping sauce.
- With Rice or Paratha: Amritsari Fish Fry also pairs wonderfully with some fluffy jeera rice or buttery paratha for a complete meal.
- For Parties and Gatherings: This dish is a hit at parties! Serve it alongside spicy potato wedges, fresh salad, and chilled beverages for a complete snack platter.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red chilli powder and add some green chilies to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Grilled Option: For a healthier twist, you can also grill the marinated fish on a preheated grill instead of shallow frying it.
- Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian version, substitute the fish with tofu or paneer, and follow the same marination and cooking instructions.
Conclusion
The Amritsari Fish Fry recipe brings the best of Punjabi street food into your home. With its aromatic spices, crispy texture, and savory flavor, it’s a treat for any seafood lover. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a delightful side dish, this recipe is sure to leave your guests asking for more. Easy to make yet bursting with flavor, this dish is a must-try for all food enthusiasts!
