This Thalassery style sardine fry involves slow-cooking the fish by frying in a base of grated coconut, rice flour, red chillies, green chillies, ginger, and curry leaves.
Many of my friends who tried the chicken perattu recipe reached out to me to say that it came out well and everyone loved it. If you remember the chicken perattu post, you’ll know that I got this recipe from my brother-in-law. The success of that recipe prompted me to go back to him for another family favourite recipe of his – the special sardine fry – this one from where they live now, Thalassery.
Thalassery, a town in the Kannur district along the Malabar coast, is famous for its culinary heritage. This coastal town is renowned not just for the eponymous Thalassery Biriyani, but also for many of their seafood delicacies made with the fresh seafood they have in abundance!
Thalassery Style Sardine Fry
Sardines are a popular fish along the coasts of South India. They are used to make curries and fish fries. But sardines are not for everyone. Compared to a lot of other fish, they have a stronger smell and a strong taste. But they are probably the healthiest fish and an economical seafood choice for many. They are a source of omega-3 fatty acids known to combat cardiovascular diseases. They are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and calcium. The lower amount of contaminants like mercury makes them a safer seafood choice as well.
About this Thalassery style sardine fry
If you like sardines, you are going to love the Thalassery style sardine fry. This Thalassery style sardine fry is totally different from the conventional Kerala fish fry. The biggest difference is in the marinade. The marinade used in this preparation is not just to coat the fish. It adds volume to the dish and forms the base of the fish fry. So the end result is not a crispy fish fry. Instead, it is succulent fish with a firm texture on the outside and a lot of flavours coming from the grated coconut and chilli paste cooked in oil.
Thank you very much, Usha Devi! 🙂
I am happy to hear that the sardine fry was a hit.
Yes, the fried marinade is the highlight of this dish. We love it too!! 🙂 🙂
Biriyani Lover, Food Blogger, Food Writer in that order. I write about simple, honest food using local, organic produce. Let us connect - check out the about me page.
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I tried this recipe. It was a hit. The fried marinade was extremely delicious.
Thank you very much, Usha Devi! 🙂
I am happy to hear that the sardine fry was a hit.
Yes, the fried marinade is the highlight of this dish. We love it too!! 🙂 🙂
What kind of fish is equivalent to sardines in USA? Yummy recipe
Thank you very much Rag! 🙂
There is no like-for-like replacement for sardines. But seer fish, cobia, or red snapper will work well with this recipe.