Fish puttu, also known as meen puttu, is a delicious South Indian dish made with flaked fish, spices, and grated coconut. It’s a flavorful and nutritious preparation that can be served as a side dish or a main course. Here’s a simple recipe to make fish puttu:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams boneless fish fillets (such as kingfish, mackerel, or tilapia)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Steam the fish fillets until they are cooked through. You can steam them using a steamer basket or by placing them in a microwave-safe dish with a little water and covering it with a lid or plastic wrap. Once cooked, allow the fish to cool slightly, then flake it using a fork or your fingers. Set aside.
- Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the pan. Saute until the onions turn translucent.
- Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and black pepper powder to the pan. Mix well and cook for a minute to toast the spices.
- Add the flaked fish to the pan along with salt to taste. Stir well to combine and cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finally, add the grated coconut to the pan and mix well with the fish mixture. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired, and serve hot as a side dish or with rice or bread.
Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic fish puttu!
