Mathi Puliyum Mulakum/Sardine Fish Curry

Mathi puliyum mulakum/sardine fish curry is a regional specialty. Kerala is a paradise for seafood lovers with so many drool-worthy fish and seafood recipes. Now let's be honest, the real joy of Kerala is its food. If you are feeling adventurous, try what the locals eat. This is one such curry, simple and straight forward with distinctive regional flavors. Mathi mulakum puli means sardine cooked in chilly tamarind paste. It is a spicy seafood delicacy with a bold and assertive taste. If you like to indulge in spicy food this is a perfect dish.

Sardine is a small oily fish found plenty in Kerala coast. Curried or fried sardine fish taste delicious. It is healthy and rich in protein, calcium and omega fatty acids. It boosts the immune system and helps maintain healthy skin. Spicy sardine curry is an absolute comfort homey food and goes well with kappa puzhukku/boiled mashed tapioca or with rice. Don't forget fried curry leaves and coconut oil for an authentic Kerala flavor. Try this, you will surely love it.

Mathi Puliyum Mulakum/Sardine Fish Curry

Cooking time- 25 minutes
Recipe type- Curry- side dish
Cuisine- Kerala / Indian

Ingredients
Mathi/sardine- 8
Kashmiri chilly-10
(add according to spice tolerance)
Tamarind- 1 small lemon sized ball
Pearl onions- 6-8
Fenugreek powder- 1/8 tsp(optional)
Turmeric powder- 1/3 tsp
Curry leaves- 2 springs
Coconut oil- 1 tbs
salt to taste

To make Mathi Puliyum Mulakum

In a bowl add tamarind and dry kashmiri chilly. You can remove the seeds of the chilly. Pour one cup of hot water and let is soak for half an hour.
Using a mixer, make a fine paste of chilly and tamarind. When it a smooth paste add the the pearl onions and two curry leaves and pulse a few times.
Pour this paste into a pan/ chatti. Add salt, turmeric powder and fenugreek powder and mix. Add two cups of water and bring it to a boil.
Add fish pieces and cook in high for two minutes. Cover and simmer in low flame for about 10-12 minutes. Remove the lid and continue simmering in low flame.When the gravy thickens and oil separates the curry is done. At this stage add two springs of curry leaves and drizzle fresh coconut oil on top.
Remove from stove.Keep it covered till it is ready to be served. This will help to infuse the flavors of curry leaves and coconut oil.