Introduction:
Meen Varuval, also known as South Indian Fish Fry, is a
lip-smacking delicacy that originates from the southern coastal regions of
India. This delightful dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of South India
and is a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will explore
the essence of Meen Varuval, unveil an authentic recipe, and address some
frequently asked questions to guide you in preparing this delectable fish fry
at home.
Meen Varuval Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 500 grams fish fillets (any firm-fleshed variety
like kingfish, pomfret, or tilapia)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour
- 2 tablespoons corn flour
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice
preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves (a handful)
- Oil (for deep frying)
Instructions:
1.
Clean the
fish fillets thoroughly and pat them dry using a paper towel.
2.
In a mixing
bowl, combine rice flour, corn flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder,
ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth and thick
marinade.
3.
Coat the
fish fillets evenly with the marinade. Ensure that the fish is coated well on
all sides, including the cuts and slits.
4.
Allow the
fish to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse
and enhance the taste.
5.
In a deep
frying pan or kadai, heat oil on medium heat for frying.
6.
Once the
oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish fillets into the oil. Fry them in
batches to avoid overcrowding.
7.
Fry the
fish until it turns golden brown and crispy on both sides. Flip the fish gently
to ensure even cooking.
8.
Remove the
fried fish from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
9.
In a
separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add a handful of curry leaves. Fry
them until they turn crisp.
10.
Garnish the
fried fish with the fried curry leaves for an added burst of flavor and aroma.
11.
Your
delicious Meen Varuval is ready to be served hot as a delightful appetizer or
side dish.
Meen Varuval Calories:
The calorie content of Meen Varuval varies depending on
the type of fish and the quantity of oil used for frying. On average, a single
serving of Meen Varuval (100 grams) contains approximately 200-250 calories.
FAQs: Answering Your Queries
Q: Can I use frozen fish for Meen Varuval?
A: Yes, you
can use frozen fish for Meen Varuval. However, ensure that the fish is thawed
completely and excess moisture is removed before marinating.
Q: Is Meen Varuval very spicy?
A: The spiciness of Meen
Varuval can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. You can increase
or decrease the amount of red chili powder in the marinade to control the spice
level.
Q: Can I use any fish variety for Meen Varuval?
A: Yes,
you can use any firm-fleshed fish for Meen Varuval. Popular choices include
kingfish, pomfret, tilapia, or mackerel.
Conclusion:
Meen Varuval is a delightful South Indian fish fry that brings the flavors of the coastal regions to your plate. With its crispy texture and fiery taste, it is sure to tantalize your taste buds. By following the authentic recipe and tips provided in this blog post, you can now prepare this scrumptious delicacy at home and delight your family and friends with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!